Sean Roberts is no stranger to wind energy. Since the mid-1980s, he has overseen the construction of more than 4,000 wind turbines across the United States and around the world. His latest initiative, the Salt Creek Wind project in Iowa, continues to build on that legacy. Last year, Salt Creek Wind Phase I was successfully sold to NextEra, and Salt Creek Wind II is now moving through the permitting stage.

As one of the earliest pioneers in the wind industry, Roberts has witnessed the remarkable evolution of turbine technology–from the first small commercial models to today’s sophisticated, highly efficient generators. “It’s been amazing to see how technology has advanced over the decades, driving down costs while delivering reliable, affordable, and abundant electricity,” Roberts said. “Here in Iowa, nearly 60% of the electricity used daily is generated in-state from wind–helping keep energy rates among the lowest in the nation.”

Roberts is especially proud of the impact his projects have had on rural communities. Throughout his career, he has seen firsthand how wind farms generate property tax revenue, strengthen schools, and provide long-term economic opportunity for landowners. For example, the Tama County School Districts are projected to receive $22 million in direct revenue over the life of Salt Creek I and II, with more than $100 million in taxable property added to the local tax base. “This kind of income benefits everyone – students, teachers, and taxpayers alike,” Roberts noted.

Today, Roberts and Salt Creek Wind are engaged in ongoing settlement discussions with the Tama County Board of Supervisors (BOS) to allow Salt Creek II to move forward. “I believe in negotiation, compromise, and fair solutions,” Roberts said. “It’s past time to stop litigating and start working toward an agreement that respects all parties. I will always stand up for the rights of Salt Creek landowners and their ability to benefit from their property.”

Roberts emphasized that Salt Creek has always been envisioned as one project with two phases, simply built at different times. With Salt Creek I now under construction adjacent to the Salt Creek II site, he notes that the same legal principles apply to both phases. The BOS already voted 5-0 to approve a settlement ending lawsuits related to Salt Creek I. “It only makes sense that Salt Creek II should move forward under the same principles,” Roberts said.

Negotiations with the BOS have been constructive, with both sides making meaningful compromises. Among the agreements already reached:

-Salt Creek III will not be developed.

-Once construction begins, Salt Creek II will contribute $1.2 million to the county’s

general fund.

-After Salt Creek II becomes operational, the project will seek FAA approval to install an Aircraft Detection Lighting System (ADLS), ensuring turbine lights remain off at night unless aircraft are present.

Roberts remains optimistic about finalizing an agreement. “We’ve made real progress with the BOS negotiating committee,” he said. “The conversations have been professional, productive, and focused on reaching a fair compromise.”

Reflecting on decades of experience, Roberts shared how deeply rewarding it is to see communities thrive from these projects. He recalled one landowner in New Mexico who told him, “Sean, if only you had come when I was younger. But now, my family will enjoy the benefits for generations.”

As Salt Creek II nears completion and Salt Creek II advances, Roberts looks forward to continuing that tradition of shared prosperity. “These projects will be a tremendous asset to the community, the schools, and the landowners,” he said. “Together, we can move forward.”

Sean Roberts is the sole shareholder and CEO of Nations Energy Solutions, Inc. (NES), a company he formed in 2011 and which currently owns Salt Creek Wind Phase II under development in Tama County. He has actively worked in the U.S. wind energy industry for over 44 years after first beginning his career in aviation in 1975.