Leveraging Operating Projects to Elevate the Industry (and Develop More!)

In November 2021, Embolden research conducted a study in Huron County, Michigan that found a +9 points net support for the continued development of wind turbines in the county after one short message on the tax revenue benefits of the industry. Apex Clean Energy is implementing a public engagement program that leverages operating projects to garner support for the industry and new projects.

Tactics used include a tax & operating benefits mailer, an annual engagement summary report, a project community grant, a regional conservation grant, and local group partnerships. Ribbon cutting and blade signing ceremonies have proved beneficial for leasing new land at adjacent projects and elevating the industry for financing and offtake partners.

Apex Clean Energy is adapting to an increase in demanding permitting requirements by developing a sophisticated complaint-tracking system and answering service, a state-of-the-art safety program, and hiring locals whenever possible.

Operating projects can also be leveraged for legislative action. Examples include utilizing Great Pathfinder Wind in Iowa to obtain letters of support from Chuck Grassley and Randy Feenstra, site tours for Senator Sally Butler and Representative Butler at Mulligan Solar in Illinois, and multiple relationship-building and educational legislative tours of operating projects in Texas.