The economic benefits of wind development are many and substantial. The first to benefit are landowners who agree to lease sites to wind developers. They usually receive an annual payment for each installed wind turbine. Leases typically run for a period of twenty years.

The second group to benefit are local contractors who supply road grading, crane and electrical engineering and installation services for the site. Along with the contractors, local restaurants, hotels and other service-oriented businesses profit during construction. Upon completion and operation, the wind farm will usually employ a number of local electricians and service people for maintenance and operations.

Third, local tax income can increase and bring improved quality of life benefits through larger school and/or municipal budgets.

Compensation
Land leases for wind farms are typically determined by the number of turbines installed. Leasing for each wind turbine is in the range of $2000 to $4000 dependent on several factors. Leases typically run twenty years.