Learn about Wind Power Alternative Energy Source

Wind power is the fastest growing alternative energy source in the United States. The capacity has grown 32% annually for the past five years. The industry had a record breaking year in 2005 installing over 2,400 megawatts, or 3 billion dollars worth of generating equipment in 22 states. This jump in megawatts generated equated to a 35% increase in the wind power fleet. This brought the total generating capacity to 9,149 megawatts which is enough to provide electricity to power 2.3 million homes. President Bush has stated, "Areas with good wind resources have the potential to supply up to 20% of the electric consumption of the U.S." The wind power industry has proven it has the capabilities to contribute to the nations power needs at a level conventional power sources offer

Large players including General Electric and MidAmerican Energy which Warren Buffett owns 80%, are scrambling for a piece of the market. Buffett plans to build the largest wind farm in Iowa. Starting in 1999 MidAmerican began purchasing 60% of the energy generated at a northwest Iowa wind farm. The wind farm produces enough electricity to power 72,000 homes. MidAmerican also owns and operates a second wind farm in north central Iowa. Both wind farms have the capacity to produce 360.5 megawatts which can provide electricity to over 100,000 homes. Wind turbines have provided a new cash crop for landowners who agree to install the units on their land. The landowners receive an annual payment from the utility.

New wind turbines that have recently come on the market are only 45 feet high (compared with 100 feet for a conventional model). These new units are designed for properties as small as a half acre and can provide power for homes or businesses. New low friction alternator technology and new blade designs can produce electricity in winds as low as five miles per hour. These new units are also very quiet.

Wind energy is safe, clean, domestic, and we have an abundant source of wind. Wind energy is one of the best options we have for alternative sources of energy.

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Wind Tree Concept