Wind Energy Takes Root in Rural North Carolina: A Look Into Steve Harris’ Farm
North Carolina native Steve Harris has spent more than five decades farming the fertile land of Pasquotank County. His land yields corn, soybeans, and wheat, but there is another, less-traditional ‘crop’ that Steve has cultivated on his 1,350-acre farm—wind.
Steve’s interest in renewable energy was inspired by a trip he took to Niagara Falls in the 80’s, where he marveled at the sheer force of the falls. He noted that the Niagara region has capitalized on the natural resources available to it, utilizing dams to harness the power of the rushing water. While northeastern North Carolina does not have powerful waterfalls, it is home to a steady and predictable wind resource. “I think we need to take advantage of water, the wind, and the sun,” Steve says.
Now, Steve hosts eleven wind turbines on his property, each capable of generating 2 MW of energy. These turbines are part of the Desert Wind Farm, also known as Amazon Wind US East, located in Perquimans and Pasquotank counties. The Amazon Wind project was developed by Avangrid Renewables and came online in 2017. In total, the project consists of 104 turbines and supplies 208 MW of clean, reliable power to a private offtaker, Amazon.
“I think we need to take advantage of water, the wind, and the sun”
Steve Harris, Farmer
For Steve, the value of the turbines on his property extends beyond the production of clean energy. They provide a reliable source of income that is not dependent on unpredictable crop yields and changing weather patterns. Steve’s been taking risks and gambling with the weather for decades. As he puts it, “Farmers are the biggest gamblers [and] risk takers there are.” So, when developers came knocking and presented the opportunity to host turbines on his property, he was weary, but interested.
Like many land owners, Steve was initially hesitant because of ‘the unknowns.’ At the time, wind energy was uncharted territory in North Carolina, and public perception was skeptical at best. There was a clear knowledge gap. Farmers, local commissioners, and the public did not know where to turn to receive information.
During development, there were many legal and logistical challenges to overcome. Property boundaries and the need to distance turbines from non-participating properties limited the number of turbines Steve could host. Despite these limitations, the potential for steady income and environmental benefits outweighed the challenges. “We really didn’t have anything to lose,” he explains.
After several years, the Amazon Wind project became a reality. Upon completion, Avangrid Renewables became the largest taxpayer in the counties, generating over $520,000 annually in tax revenue. These funds support essential services like local schools, infrastructure, and emergency services.
Reflecting on his experience, Steve says “I think it’s a good thing; I would do it again.” He adds that more attention must be paid to the unique needs and knowledge of the local populus. “There needs to be more cooperation,” he says.
As for dispelling myths around wind energy, Steve is clear: “The opposition will say anything they can think of, whether it’s right or wrong,” he says, referencing long-debunked claims about health risks. His own experience has shown him that wind power is both safe and beneficial to his farm, his community, and the environment.
The need for greater cooperation, transparency, and accurate information are exactly why initiatives like NC State’s C-DASH Program have come about. The C-DASH program works to provide communities across the Carolinas with the educational resources, services, and technical assistance they need to navigate renewable energy development. Check out meetings happening in your area or see SEWC’s land-based wind page for further information and resources.
