U.S. Wind Power Breaks Record in 2009

If you have been reading this site long enough then you probably already know that I’m a renewable energy geek. I am constantly on the look out for the latest news and information on anything new and improved that will move the Green Energy industry forward even just a smidge. One of my favorites in the renewable energy field of products is wind power generation and all the news that my neurons can possibly devour. It just fascinates me that as each year passes, America is that much closer to being less dependent on foreign fossil fuels to generate electricity for our nation.

Check out this latest report from American Wind Energy Association…

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. wind industry broke all previous records by installing nearly 10,000 megawatts (MW) of new generating capacity in 2009 (enough to serve over 2.4 million homes), but still lags in manufacturing, the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) said today in its Q4 report.

These new projects place wind power neck and neck with natural gas ¹ as the leading source of new electricity generation for the country. Together, the two sources account for about 80% of the new capacity added in the country last year. - AWEA

What blew me away by this report was that Texas was the leader in the nation with wind power by almost a three to one margin followed by its closest rival Iowa for MW installed wind turbines. Then there is the little factoid that wind power generation is growing by 39% per year in America. Mega Watt “Ut oh” for OPEC or anyone else that wants to try and dim the lights on America. Then I’m wondering if there are even 2.4 million homes in the entire state of Massachusetts? That leaves 49 states to go!

Hold on, it gets better…

GE gets $1.4-B contract for largest US wind farm
January 27, 2010, 3:25pm

NEW YORK – GE (NYSE:GE) said it has received a $1.4 billion contract from independent power producer Caithness Energy to supply wind turbines and provide services for an 845-megawatt (MW) wind farm project to be located in Oregon.

The wind farm, called Shepherds Flat, has received most of the necessary government permits to operate and is ready to be built. When completed, it will be larger than any wind farm currently in operation around the globe. - Mb.com.ph

THE LARGEST in the WORLD! Now that is some great news!

Every single time I see one of those monster wind turbines spinning free power out of the air I can’t help but think of energy independence and that makes me think of the American flag which ultimately stands for freedom. And that makes me feel very comfortable knowing that my children’s future will not be held energy hostage by any foreign nation.

Papamoka

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