A newly elected state senator says it is time to end taxpayer subsidization of wind farms.

“Oklahoma taxpayers have already invested hundreds of millions of dollars in subsidies for wind farms across the state, and it’s beyond time to end this costly practice,” said state Sen. Jonathan Wingard, R-Ada. “While new wind projects no longer qualify for these credits, existing operations continue to receive significant tax breaks even though Oklahoma families don’t benefit from these green-energy initiatives. It’s become abundantly clear that this money could be put to better use elsewhere.”

Senate Bill 239 would eliminate the state’s zero-emission subsidy for wind production after tax year 2025. Eliminating the tax credit would save taxpayers up to $16 million annually.

The state significantly scaled back the zero-emission tax credit when lawmakers previously voted to eliminate the tax breaks for wind facilities that became operational after July 1, 2017. Some wind farms, however, were grandfathered in and continue to receive the 10-year tax credit that is based on the amount of wind energy they generate.

SB 239 will be eligible for consideration during the legislative session that begins Feb. 3, 2025.