Document Type
Working Paper
Publication Date
2015
College/Unit
Chambers College of Business and Economics
Document Number
15-11
Department/Program/Center
Economics
Abstract
Given the push toward renewable and alternative energy, a new energy mix is emerging. Wind is the fastest growing source of renewable electricity in the United States. The siting of wind turbines has proven controversial with multiple operations facing local resistance. Opponents cite issues such as noise, bird deaths, and aesthetics. Given that farmer portfolios are heavily comprised of land assets, the possibility that surrounding wind energy operations may reduce agricultural land value is of concern. This study examines that possibility using a hedonic regression analysis comparing per acre land value to a series of land characteristics and distance variables for Somerset County, PA. Results indicate no significant relationship between the presence of wind turbines and the value of agricultural land. This confirms the findings of similar studies which have examined the same relationship.
Digital Commons Citation
Schultz, Chris; Hall, Joshua C.; and Strager, Michael P., "Production of Wind Energy and Agricultural Land Values: Evidence from Pennsylvania" (2015). Economics Faculty Working Papers Series. 144.
https://researchrepository.wvu.edu/econ_working-papers/144