Iowans could save $3.6 billion on electricity bills through 2050 if the state continues to aggressively pursue wind energy, the American Wind Energy Association reported today.

The state already generates 28 percent of its electricity from wind, but that figure could rise to 40 percent or more in the next five years, the industry group said. By 2030, Iowa wind power could produce enough power for 6.3 million average American homes.

Wind power already supports up to 7,000 jobs in Iowa, including positions at 13 factories and assembly plants around the state. Another economic benefit: Land-lease payments to Iowa farmers and other rural landowners could grow from $17.1 million now to $55 million in 2030, the wind energy association reported.

The analysis used data from the U.S. Department of Energy and showed that by 2020 wind energy in Iowa could be responsible for:

• Annual property tax revenue of $49 million.

• Payments of a combined $19 million to farmers and other property owners each year.

• Water savings of 3.7 billion gallons a year.

• Cuts in carbon emissions that would be like taking 1.4 million cars off the roads.