Bluebonnet Prairie Wind

The ultimate goal is to have a positive environmental impact overall. Both the project financing and permitting process include extensive reviews that reduce risks. LRE begins the development process with environmental studies to confirm site conditions. These studies inform project design and management plans for all aspects of the project. In addition, the industry is continually improving technology and management best practices. LRE has a company culture that focuses on reducing risks and increasing safety and is committed to being a good, long-term neighbor and contributor to the community. 

LRE will be responsible for maintaining the wind facility and property including access roads, buildings and energy infrastructure. We implement vegetation and biodiversity management practices to promote the establishment of native vegetation and reduce invasive plant species and typically include pollinator-friendly seed mixes. On some projects, we partner with shepherds to manage vegetation, while others use mechanical mowing to reduce fire and operations risk.

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 project design will include several wildlife management features requested by local community members and in consultation with relevant authorities.  In addition, LRE is committed to implementing land stewardship best practices with vegetation and biodiversity management plans.

The average life of a wind facility is approximately 30 to 40 years, but with proper maintenance, it can last longer. Many projects may also be “repowered” to extend the productive life of the project. This includes upgrading existing components to improve performance or increase capacity, which requires additional reviews and permits. At the end of the life of the project, the Bluebonnet Prairie Wind project will be responsible for removing equipment and restoring the site.

Construction of a wind farm is generally a 12–18-month process. Construction covers several distinct phases from site preparation to actual construction and operation start-up. work. The number of construction jobs will be in the hundreds with a handful of permanent roles for operations and maintenance. Exact figures will be determined by final designs and construction plans.