Positioned as the 1433rd largest power generation facility in the United States, the Big Horn Wind Project stands out in the burgeoning field of renewable energy. With a capacity of 199 MW, it is recognized as the 186th largest wind plant among 1142 installations nationwide. This facility plays a critical role in diversifying the energy portfolio in a country where gas predominates, comprising a significant 1,386,385 MW of total capacity across 10,047 plants. Despite its relatively modest share of the national capacity at just 0.01%, Big Horn Wind Project contributes to the growing emphasis on renewable energy sources in the region. The wind farm utilizes advanced turbine technology designed to harness wind energy efficiently, converting gusts into clean electricity that feeds into the local grid. Located near several significant facilities—such as the John Day hydroelectric plant, which boasts an impressive 2160 MW capacity, and the larger Biglow Canyon Wind Farm at 449.7 MW—Big Horn is part of a vibrant energy cluster that enhances the overall stability and reliability of the electrical grid in Oregon. Other nearby wind facilities include the Klondike Windpower III (297.5 MW), Horseshoe Bend Wind LLC (290 MW), and South Hurlburt Wind LLC (290 MW), all contributing to a more sustainable energy future. As Avangrid Renewables LLC continues to operate this facility, commissioned in 2006, the Big Horn Wind Project exemplifies the shift towards renewable energy in the U.S. This shift is increasingly vital for meeting environmental goals and reducing dependence on fossil fuels, especially as wind energy technology matures and becomes more cost-effective. The future of this facility not only symbolizes local advancements in energy production but also underscores the broader transition towards a greener energy landscape across the nation.
20 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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