RENEWABLE ENERGY - WIND
The potential for wind to supply a significant quantity of energy in the United States is enormous. According to the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA), the U.S. wind industry has installed over 5000 megawatts (MW) in 2007. Washington State is ranked no. 5 in the nation by installed wind capacity while ranked no. 24 in the nation by potential wind capacity. There is over 1000MW installed with over 3700MW potential capacity. This does not take into account smaller systems.
The small wind industry has been experiencing double digits growth and the trend is expected to continue through 2010. The U.S. is a leading producer of small wind turbines, with one-third of the world market commanded by four U.S. producers. AWEA predicts continued growth in a market that has about 45 MW of installed capacity in small wind turbines domestically, and makes 50% of its sales in foreign markets.
A common concern about wind energy is its effect on birds. Note that in the November-December 2006 issue of the Audubon Society’s magazine, John Flicker, President said that Audubon "strongly supports wind power as a clean alternative energy source" and pointing to the threat global warming poses to birds and other wildlife.
The Puget Sound Region is not known for having a great wind resource. But this does not rule out micro-climate potential at certain sites.
