Most Americans agree that the U.S. should prioritize renewable energy over fossil fuels. A recent Pew Research Center study puts that number at nearly 70 percent. Where the conversation gets divided is deciding where these renewable energy projects should go, explains Grant County resident Pete Moris.
“Really we’ve seen an influx, particularly in Southwest Wisconsin, of potential wind projects,” he explains. There are actually four different energy developers who are actively signing up lease agreements across Grant County, and so it’s a very hot topic in our part of the state.”
Moris volunteers with a group hosting informational sessions in Southwest Wisconsin about oncoming wind energy projects. He says they’ve filled town halls with hundreds of people in places like Bloomington, Belmont, and Cassville. During these sessions, he’s found rural residents are growing more uncertain about wind energy developments.
Moris explains for many people, the first time they hear about these projects is when their neighbors or friends in the community have already signed up.
“We’re trying to educate folks and help them make an informed decision,” he says of the group hosting informational meetings.
Renewable energy projects, such as wind and solar, can have a lot of benefits for a farm business, Moris says. Other resident see the cons — potential harm to wildlife, noise pollution, and visual impact on landscapes, for example. Regardless of your feelings around renewable energy, he says it’s important to practice caution before signing a dotted line.
“If you don’t have all of the information, or you’re not educated, it’s going to be tough to make a decision on where you land,” he says.
Moris encouarges rural residents to reach out to him if they want to host an informational session in their community: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petemoris/
