The repowered Caprock Wind facility will look very much like the original project, only with a smaller footprint and fewer wind turbines. Wind generating turbines are essentially tall windmills which will be located 1,000 feet or more from occupied residences. Wind turbines are made of multiple components including the foundation, tower, nacelle, hub, and blades. The turbines themselves are constructed to “hunt” for the wind, pointing themselves into the prevailing wind direction​. The turbine’s generator housing contains copper windings and magnets that generate an electrical-producing response when spun at high speed​. Electricity is then transmitted over underground/overhead cabling from each turbine to a utility-owned substation that then transmitted to overhead transmission lines to end users.

Well-developed wind projects will not negatively impact property values. A wind energy facility such as Caprock Wind is a low-intensity, passive use of land. Once constructed, wind projects do not possess the negative qualities that could theoretically impact property values such as hazardous materials, odor, and excess traffic. Enhanced setbacks will also be used.

Wind turbines are placed to minimize noise heard outside the project. The closest a wind turbine is typically placed to a home is about 300 yards. At that distance a wind turbine will have a sound level of 43 decibels – a little more than the sound of a refrigerator running and less than the average air conditioner. At 500 yards the sound drops to about 38 decibels which could be compared to the sound of light rain. In short, studies show wind farms generate significantly less infrasound than car traffic.

The average life of a wind facility is approximately 30-40 years, but with proper maintenance, it can last longer.

Caprock Wind is responsible for maintaining the wind facility property. We work diligently with consultants and local stakeholders to ensure proper ground cover, erosion and sediment control, and stormwater management. Also, land not occupied by wind turbines will remain in its prior use, meaning a minimal impact to farming.

At the end of the life of the project, Caprock Wind will be responsible for removing equipment and restoring the site to its original use. As part of the permitting review process, Decommissioning and restoration bond will be posted prior to construction to ensure ample consideration and protections are provided.

Caprock Wind has been operating in Quay County since 2004 and has been an established good neighbor for 20 years. During the project’s repowering, construction will bring new employment opportunities, a large direct investment in the community, and local business generated from the purchase of food, fuel, accommodations, and other local supplies. During the construction period there will be a relatively short-term increase in traffic volume and noise, typical of similar projects. Once the project is operational, daily traffic to and from the site will be minimal. Throughout its life, the project will not burden Blackford County services and utilities; however, it will contribute substantial revenue to local tax authority and provide clean energy in Indiana.