EnergyWise Renewables
Butler County REC members who want to support green energy in our region can particiate in our EnergyWise Renewables program.
Alternative or Wind Energy
Information and application forms (pdf format) for members of Butler County REC interested in renewable energy - such as a wind generator - that interconnects with our system.
IOWA ENERGY CENTER
The Iowa Energy Center, 2521 Elwood Drive Suite 124, Ames, IA 50010, is a good place to learn about projects in Iowa. Phone (515) 294-8819 or go online at www.energy.iastate.edu.
USDA SECTION 9006 PROGRAMS
USDA’s Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Program provides financial assistance to agricultural producers and rural small businesses to purchase renewable energy systems or make energy efficiency improvements. Combination grants and guaranteed loans can fund up to 50 percent of a project’s total eligible costs. To learn more, go to USDA's Section 9006 online information.
JOHN DEERE LOOKS TO WIND POWER
John Deere Credit is investing in wind energy projects. The company is interested in medium-sized wind energy projects in the Midwest that would produce at least 1.25 megawatts of electricity. Qualified farmers who are investing in wind energy may want to consider John Deere Credit for financing, project development and other services.
Learn more about the John Deere Credit program.
Wind Turbine Dealers and Distributors
Are you looking into wind energy? Please contact the Iowa Energy Center for more information: Iowa Energy Center, 2521 Elwood Drive Suite 124, Ames, IA 50010. Phone (515) 294-8819 or go online at www.energy.iastate.edu.
Is a wind turbine worthwhile to put up?
Installing your own wind turbine is an individual decision for each member-consumer of Butler County REC. The cooperative's role in this process is to help educate our member-consumers regarding our expectations. The member-consumer and our representatives will work together toward a written agreement. First and foremost, we must protect the safety of our member-consumers and employees, maintain the integrity and reliability of the grid and ensure cost fairness.
What does a wind turbine cost?
The price of a wind turbine varies depending on factors such as size or capacity of the turbine, type of turbine, manufacturer, and supply and demand for such turbines.
Which vendors should you work with?
Butler County REC does not endorse one particular wind turbine vendor. There are several resources on the Internet which may give you some additional background information.
What rebates or other incentives do entities such as the state or federal government have for wind generators?
Incentives can come in the form of tax credits, low interest loans or other delivery mechanisms. Your tax accountant or tax attorney can advise you about tax credits or other tax incentives relating to the installation of a wind turbine. The Iowa Energy Center may be another source of information.
What rate will the cooperative pay member-consumers for kWhs generated from a wind turbine?
Corn Belt Power Cooperative, Butler County REC's power provider, will purchase power from any qualifying facility within your co-op’s service territory. The rates paid will be based on avoided cost for kWhs that the member-consumer generates and delivers to the grid. This avoided cost standard is pursuant to federal regulations. Federal regulations also require a standard rate for qualifying facilities with a design capacity of 100 kilowatts or less and the regulations allow for an individually negotiated rate for units over 100 kilowatts.
Will you have to carry liability insurance?
It is very common for businesses and individual homeowners to carry liability policies to insure against losses or claims. Customers should not view carrying liability insurance on a wind turbine any differently than the liability insurance on any other personal property. Insurance provides coverage for damages to others and their property. It is up to the owner of a wind generator to assume responsibility for insurance coverage.