Wind energy
Wind energy is the fastest growing energy technology in the world. Wind turbines are a clean, renewable form of energy with a proven track record. Wind farms currently make up a small percentage of the United States' total energy picture, but the rate at which the market is growing promises to make wind an important energy source in the future.
The benefits of wind energy are numerous. The wind industry is expected to create 80,000 permanent jobs by 2020. Since wind is a completely renewable fuel source, it does not produce risks to human health or air quality.
Thinking about wind energy for your home?
Download the Virginia's Consumer Guide to Small Wind Electric Systems
Assess your options for wind turbine installation on your property with the Next Step Tools
The Next Step Tools resource empowers all landowners in Virginia by providing a personal wind power analysis that informs the user of the benefits and disadvantages of investing in small wind power for their home, farm, or business. This resource, developed within the James Madison University office of the Virginia Wind Energy Collaborative (VWEC), allows a landowner to estimate the wind power potential on their property and explore various options for wind turbine installation.
Learn more about wind energy:
Virginia Wind Energy Collaborative (VWEC) information on wind energy in VA, including financial incentives
Curry & Kerlinger studies on the impacts of wind power on wildlife
Information on Greenlight Energy, a wind energy developer providing opportunities for land owners in Virginia
American Wind Energy Association provides general information about wind energy in the United States