Journal #8 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Journal #8 - Essay Example According to Apex website, Mills Branch Wind is expected to occupy approximately 5000 acres of local open farming land in Eastern Kent and is capable of generating up to 100 MW of homegrown energy, with a potential of powering approximately 30,000 homes every year. The expected number of turbines is 25-30, with approximately  ¼ to  ½ mile spacing on active farmland. Demand for new infrastructure will be limited due to the existing highways and high-voltage power cables. The project intends to cause very limited disruption to farmers hence an opportunity for them to continue with their farming activities. Mills Branch Wind would constitute an important investment in the rural economy by providing revenues to farmers, schools and the government. During construction, 70-100 full time jobs are expected to emerge and 6-8 permanent opportunities at each local facility of operation and maintenance. Kent County is favorable for this project after examination of several potential sites due to: existence of high- voltage cables, affirmed wind resource, adequate commercial farmland for expansion, an existing highway network and location far from sensitive environmental and military areas. Landowners and farmers hosting the wind turbines would benefit adequately from payment of annual lease for a projected period of 25 years, injecting revenues amounting to millions of dollars into the local economy of Kent County. The construction of Mills Branch Wind is in its early stages as extensive studies, community input, permits, engineering and other activities must be finished first. Therefore, Apex is working closely with The Local Government of Kent County and the public to get the project on track. Mills Branch Wind project is not without challenges. The project is facing a lot of opposition from both economic and political environments. The major players in opposition are Eastern Shore Land Conservancy and Keep Kent