While many think of wind energy as a new technology, people have harnessed the power of the wind for more than 2,000 years. American agriculture spread across the plains largely because of windmills that brought underground water to the surface to support crops and livestock. In other places, windmills ran the grinding wheels that turned grain into flour.
Of course, turbines capable of generating commercial-scale amounts of electricity are a relatively recent development, and electric cooperatives have been quick to embrace the technology. Co-ops have long been among the leaders in deploying wind power, particularly through what’s known as distributed wind generation. In fact, electric co-ops across the nation have expanded their renewable energy capacity by 192% over the past decade.
Wind energy provides co-ops and the areas they serve with some advantages. Large-scale wind turbines already offer some of today’s lowest-cost power, and advances in technology continue to enhance their output and efficiency. In addition, rural and remote areas served by co-ops are home to some of the nation’s highest-quality wind resources.
Nearly 150,000 Americans currently work in the wind power industry, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that wind turbine service technicians represent the decade’s fastest-growing career. Besides producing electricity, wind projects generate nearly $2 billion in taxes and lease payments annually, improving local economic health.
Wind energy also has its disadvantages. Understandably, it is less suitable in areas where the winds are too light or unpredictable, and installing turbines and their associated infrastructure in remote areas can be complex and costly, outweighing potential economic advantages. Maintenance and repairs in remote areas may also carry higher costs.
The operation of the turbines creates some environmental concerns. Birds and bats that fly into blades and towers may be injured or killed. The spinning turbine blades can be a source of noise for people living nearby, and many view the tall structures as eyesores.
It’s also worth noting that the economics of wind energy often rely on state and federal incentives. Without those enticements, electric co-ops and commercial developers may find other forms of generation to be more affordable.
