Nebraska: Panel discusses bill to keep landowners safe from wind scams [National Wind Watch]

The state currently has no restrictions on wind easements or lease agreements, and nearly all of them have confidentiality agreements, which exempt them from the scrutiny of both government and consumer watchdog organizations.

“If you’re dumb enough to sign ‘em, they’re smart enough to let you,” said John Hansen, president of the Nebraska Farmers Union.

And Hansen and Wegman have seen some dumb contracts. Hansen told of a landowner who signed away all rights and revenues to wind energy for 55 years for just $1,000. Wegman said he’s seen a lease given for free.