About Wind
To better provide for our country’s growing electricity needs in a clean and sustainable way. Produced and used domestically. Stimulating local economies.
A vast and endless supply of energy.
Twenty years ago, with only a few wind farms throughout the United States, no one imagined the growth that wind energy has made. Now, with significant strides in turbine technology and the implementation of favorable energy policies, electricity created by wind farms is competitive with electricity generated by fossil fuels and economically sustainable at fixed rates for as long as 20 years.
While wind is not the only solution – it’s an important piece, and one that Wasatch Wind Intermountain is passionate about helping to develop.
Why Wind?
Wind is Renewable
We won't run out. And with our growing demand for electricity we need to start securing energy sources that won't dwindle with time.
Produced and Used Domestically
Wind is not imported, it's a nationally generated energy source. An increasing amount of the manufacturing of wind turbine components is also done in the US. Not having to import energy saves energy, and provides security.
Prices are stable
Power generated by wind farms is typically purchased with long-term contracts that average 20 years. So while prices for other forms of energy can fluctuate with the market, wind prices are stable and can hedge against market fluctuations.
Wind is Clean
No mercury to leak into the water and no harmful gases into the air. Currently, electricity generation is the largest industrial source of air pollution in the U.S. Studies have found that even when the manufacturing and building of wind plants are considered, wind energy's CO2 emissions are approximately 1% of that of coal, per unit of electricity generated. The U.S. wind power generating fleet now offsets an average of 54 million tons of carbon annually, equivalent to taking 9 million cars off the road. (awea.org)
Low Impact
Once a wind farm is constructed, which typically takes 6 months to one year, human traffic to maintain the wind farm is very low. Turbines and the associated wind farm facilities, such as access roads, typically take up only 2-5% of the land area included in a project.
Existing Land Uses Continue
Farmers and ranchers can continue their operations right up to the base of the turbines. Hunting, fishing and recreation can continue. Wasatch Wind Intermountain works closely with landowners to ensure the land is reclaimed and existing uses can be maintained.
No Water is Needed
A wind farm does not need water to generate electricity - a very important benefit, especially in the West, where water is a scarce commodity. Other forms of energy generation, like coal burning and nuclear, require a significant amount of water.
Offset Fossil Fuels
Wind energy will help to reduce the demand for fossil fuel resources, which in time will help us transition to a more stable renewable energy economy.
To learn more about wind energy visit our Resources page.
And for the answers to wind questions that we hear most often, visit our FAQ’s page.
