Crescent Ridge Onshore Wind Farm | Illinois Renewable Energy Facility

Crescent Ridge is an operational onshore wind farm located in Illinois, United States, with a capacity of 53 megawatts. The facility is owned and managed by Leeward Asset Management, a prominent player in the U.S. renewable energy sector. As a medium-scale wind installation, it plays a role in diversifying the region's energy mix. The wind farm utilizes modern wind turbine technology typical of onshore installations in the Midwest. Illinois benefits from the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and the state's Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS), which mandates 25% renewable energy by 2025. These policies support the development of wind energy projects like Crescent Ridge, which contribute to grid decarbonization. Crescent Ridge's electricity is fed into the regional grid, helping to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. The facility's location in a rural area with strong wind resources minimizes land-use conflicts while supporting local economic development through jobs and tax revenue. Its operational status underscores its role in advancing Illinois' clean energy goals.

Illinois' wind farms like Crescent Ridge are typically sited in agricultural areas, where they coexist with farming activities. The turbines may pose risks to local bird and bat populations, but modern siting practices and mitigation measures help reduce these impacts. The facility's contribution to renewable energy generation supports the state's efforts to lower greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality.