As the 1382nd largest power generation facility in the United States and the 147th largest wind plant in a nation where the wind energy sector is rapidly expanding, the Courtenay Wind Farm stands out with its impressive capacity of 200 MW. Commissioned in 2017 by Northern States Power Co - Minnesota, this wind farm plays a critical role in diversifying the energy mix of the region, which predominantly relies on natural gas for its energy needs. This facility contributes a modest yet significant 0.01% of the total national capacity of 1,386,385 MW provided by over 10,000 plants across the country. The generation technology used at Courtenay involves advanced wind turbine systems that convert kinetic energy from wind into electrical power, ensuring a clean and sustainable energy source for the region. Located in North Dakota, the Courtenay Wind Farm is part of a broader energy landscape that includes nearby facilities such as the Spiritwood Station, which operates on natural gas with a capacity of 106.2 MW, and the Jamestown plant, fueled by oil with a 48.2 MW capacity. This proximity to both gas and oil plants highlights the diversified energy resources available in the region, providing stability and reliability to the local grid. Despite its relative isolation in terms of wind farms, the Courtenay Wind Farm's contribution is vital in promoting renewable energy adoption in North Dakota, which is increasingly prioritizing sustainability. The facility's operation supports both local economies and environmental goals, aligning with national trends toward cleaner energy sources. As the U.S. continues to transition toward a greener energy future, the impact of the Courtenay Wind Farm and its peers will only grow, embodying the potential for wind energy in achieving energy independence and reducing carbon footprints.
9 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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