Solar Companies Seeking Land in Illinois
Farmers continue to receive offers; IFB lawyer advises them to examine fine print closely.
Farmers throughout Illinois continue to receive letters from solar companies offering cash in exchange for use of their land. And the interest continues to grow.
Garrett Thalgott, an Illinois Farm Bureau attorney, said the number of solar companies looking for land in Illinois has increased in the last year. The number of farmers receiving offer letters has also increased.
Thalgott suggests landowners be cautious and consult a lawyer before signing anything. He encourages farmers to weigh any offers against what the farmer could be giving up.
Illinois Farm Bureau offers the following tips when considering a solar lease agreement: - Research the company.
- Seek the advice of an attorney.
- Know that there is bargaining power in numbers.
- Contact the Farm Services Agency if the land is included in a government farm program.
By Deana Stroisch, FarmWeek