What'll they tax next?

An ill wind is blowing for Wyoming wind farmers. As one of the windiest states in the country, Wyoming hopes to make money from its booming wind industry by slapping a tax on wind energy production.

The state recently approved a $1 per megawatt hour tax on wind-generated electricity that will go into effect in 2012 for turbines that have produced electricity for at least three years.

"The intent of the tax was basically to allow all the citizens of Wyoming to enjoy and benefit from the success and prosperity this new industry has brought to the state," said Ed Werner, a Wyoming county commissioner and energy consultant.

The tax will be paid by the turbine owner and revenue from the levy is expected to total at least $4 million a year.

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