Research indicates landowners have a desire for help navigating renewable energy
Across the country, farmers and ranchers are facing a new frontier: renewable energy development on agricultural land. Whether it is wind turbines dotting a wheat field or solar panels stretching across a pasture, the rise of large-scale renewable energy is reshaping the rural landscape. Along with it comes serious decisions that landowners must make about their land. Too often, they navigate these complexities alone.
The Renewable Energy Farmers of America (REFA) was created to change that. As a farmer-led, 501(c)(6) non-profit association, REFA provides the guidance, advocacy and long-term support farmers and ranchers have said they need to protect their land, livelihoods and legacy.
What Farmers Said
Prior to its launch, REFA conducted both quantitative and qualitative research with more than 100 farmers and ranchers from across the U.S. – landowners who had already hosted renewable energy projects or were actively considering it. One of the questions was simple: Do farmers and ranchers want an organization dedicated to helping them navigate renewable energy decisions?
The results were clear. 83% of respondents said they would be interested in joining REFA. Among those currently leasing land for renewable energy, that number rose to 100%. Nearly all said they would recommend REFA to others.
The research confirmed what REFA’s founders suspected: There is a real, unmet need for a trusted resource focused specifically on renewable energy and landowners.
A Voice That Has Been Missing
Farmers told us they have associations and commodity organizations for nearly every aspect of their operations, but when it comes to solar farms, wind turbines, agrivoltaics, battery storage or high-voltage transmission lines, they often feel left on their own.
They want to learn from others who have been through the process. Farmers noted a desire for legal, tax and legacy planning advice from professionals who understand the issues to help protect their land and property rights. The assistance they desire goes far beyond the present for the decades-long lifespan of a project. Farmers also want a voice in national energy policy to help shape the decisions that will affect their future.
How REFA Took Action
In response to the input gathered through the national survey, REFA leaders began developing the organization to directly reflect what farmers and ranchers said they needed. The association is designed to deliver long-term, trusted support for landowners considering or already hosting renewable energy projects.
The message from survey participants was consistent: They want practical guidance, access to experienced professionals, a strong peer network, and a voice in decisions that affect their land and future. REFA listened and is building each element of the association around those priorities.
Membership provides access to contract-savvy lease experts, tax and legacy planning resources, peer learning opportunities, and a growing digital community of like-minded landowners. Advocacy is also central to the association. From county-level siting issues to national policy debates, REFA brings farmers together to ensure their interests are represented.
Farmer-Led Structure
REFA is structured to remain farmer-focused at every level. Our board is composed of landowners. Developers and service providers may participate in non-voting roles, but the direction of the organization rests with those who live and work on the land.
REFA is embarking on a long-term commitment to farmers and ranchers who want to make informed choices about renewable energy, on their own terms. The response was clear, and REFA is here to stand with landowners for the road ahead.
Become a member today.
