Ranking as the 1303rd largest power generation facility in the United States, California Ridge Wind Energy LLC plays a vital role in the local and national energy landscape. With a capacity of 217 MW, it is the 97th largest wind plant in the country, contributing 0.02% to the national capacity of 1,386,385 MW, dominated primarily by gas. This facility, commissioned in 2013 by SunEdison LLC, symbolizes a growing shift towards renewable energy sources amidst a landscape still heavily reliant on fossil fuels. Utilizing advanced wind turbine technology, California Ridge Wind Energy harnesses the power of the wind to generate clean electricity efficiently. The facility’s operational capability is enhanced by its strategic location in Illinois, where wind energy is becoming increasingly integral to the state’s generation mix. The wind farm's output significantly complements the existing energy offerings in the region, which includes several gas-fired plants, showcasing a diverse energy portfolio. In close proximity to California Ridge are several notable power generation facilities. The Vermillion Energy Facility, with a capacity of 692 MW, is the most significant nearby competitor, relying on gas as its fuel source. Additionally, the Tilton plant (188 MW, gas) and Pioneer Trail Wind Farm LLC (150.4 MW, wind) also contribute to the area’s energy needs. The Hoopeston Wind LLC, another wind facility with a capacity of 98 MW, further emphasizes the region's commitment to renewable energy, alongside the gas-powered University of Illinois Abbott Power Plant (80.3 MW). This mix of energy sources within a 50 km radius highlights the importance of California Ridge in providing a balanced and reliable grid, especially as demand for cleaner energy grows. On a national level, the United States is home to 10,047 power plants, with a predominant reliance on gas and coal. As the energy landscape shifts, California Ridge Wind Energy LLC stands out not just for its capacity, but also as part of a collective effort to increase the share of renewables in the national grid. The wind facility's contribution is crucial in achieving long-term sustainability goals and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Operated by SunEdison LLC, California Ridge Wind Energy LLC was commissioned in 2013, reflecting a growing investment in wind technology and sustainability. As the industry continues to evolve, this facility is poised to play an even more significant role in Illinois' energy future, promoting economic growth through job creation in the renewable sector and contributing to a cleaner environment for generations to come.
13 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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