The Alta Wind Energy Center V is a noteworthy player in the renewable energy sector, ranking as the 1556th largest power generation facility in the United States. With a capacity of 168 MW, it represents a small but significant 0.01% of the nation's total energy capacity of 1,386,385 MW. Located in California, this wind power facility contributes to the state's ambitious renewable energy goals and showcases the growing importance of wind energy in the national energy landscape. Commissioned in 2011 and operated by NRG Yield LLC, the Alta Wind Energy Center V employs state-of-the-art wind turbine technology, allowing it to harness the abundant wind resources of the region efficiently. Wind energy is increasingly recognized as a clean and sustainable alternative to fossil fuels, and this facility exemplifies the shift towards greener energy sources. The power generated here feeds into California's robust grid, helping to meet the energy demands of a state that is a leader in renewable energy adoption. In the surrounding area, the Alta Wind Energy Center V is part of a larger energy cluster that includes a variety of power plants, further highlighting California's diverse energy landscape. Within a 50 km radius, the Castaic Hydroelectric Power Plant stands out with a capacity of 1682 MW, and the Alta Wind VIII, another wind facility, adds an impressive 1547 MW. Additionally, several solar plants, including Solar Star 1 and Solar Star 2, contribute capacities of 318 MW and 279 MW, respectively. This combination of wind, solar, and hydroelectric power creates a balanced and resilient energy ecosystem in the region. Despite its smaller size compared to other wind facilities, the Alta Wind Energy Center V ranks as the 222nd largest wind plant out of 1142 in the United States. Its capacity is lower than the average wind power facility in the country, which is approximately 300 MW. However, its operational efficiency and contribution to the grid make it an essential component of California's efforts to increase renewable energy generation. As California continues to push towards a cleaner energy future, the Alta Wind Energy Center V will play a vital role in achieving state and national renewable energy targets. The economic benefits of this facility include job creation and local investments, further solidifying its importance within the community. With wind energy projected to grow significantly in the coming years, the Alta Wind Energy Center V stands ready to support California's transition to a sustainable energy landscape.
15 years old
United States of America, North America
- Primary Fuel Type
- Wind
- Energy Source
- Renewable
- Country
United States of America- Continent
- North America
- Data Source
- Global Power Plant Database
United States of America — Energy ProfileWind power generation harnesses the kinetic energy of wind to produce electricity, making it one of the fastest-growing renewable energy sources globally. This process begins with wind turbines, which consist of large blades mounted on a tower. As the wind blows, it causes the blades to rotate, transforming the wind's kinetic energy into mechanical energy. This mechanical energy is then converted into electrical energy through a generator connected to the turbine. The efficiency of wind turbines has significantly improved over the past decades, with modern designs capable of generating power even at low wind speeds.
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