The Problem:

Resources: NREL Wind Resources Map:

Assume that we can generate energy at 2 W/m² when the average wind speed is above 8 m/s. The standard height of utility scale wind turbines is 80 m (which is why the map is created for 80m). Because the power generated by the wind is a very complex function of the wind speed as we talked about in class we will work from the very general numbers given above (which connect nicely with David's numbers).

How much wind power capacity (kW) is available if you use 10% of "your" area to produce wind energy?

How much wind energy (kWh) is this for you over an entire year (8760 hrs)?

What percentage of your personal energy needs is this? Be careful -- your previous value is for the entire year.

What is the total wind power capacity (MW or GW) of the country if 10% of the area is covered with wind farms?

Are there enough "Oregons" do accomplish this task in the prime wind locations?

We are currently building wind power capacity at about 8 GW each year. How many years will it take (at this rate) to cover 10% of the country (the best 10% of course:)?

What feature of the electrical grid (just the grid) currently limits our ability to achieve this goal nationally?