The Grand Ridge Wind Energy Center is a notable player in the U.S. wind energy sector, boasting a capacity of 210 MW. As the 106th largest wind facility in the United States, it holds a rank of #1326 among 10,047 power plants in the country. Although this ranking may suggest a smaller scale, it is crucial to recognize the facility's contribution of approximately 0.02% to the national capacity of 1,386,385 MW. This highlights the importance of wind energy in diversifying America's energy portfolio, especially in a landscape predominantly driven by natural gas. Commissioned in 2009, the Grand Ridge facility harnesses wind energy through advanced turbine technology, which efficiently converts wind kinetic energy into electricity. This technology has become increasingly vital as the U.S. transitions to more sustainable energy sources, making wind power a key player in the fight against climate change and energy diversification. Located in the heart of Illinois, Grand Ridge is surrounded by a significant number of power generation facilities, including the LaSalle Generating Station and LaSalle County Nuclear Generating Station, both of which are major nuclear plants with capacities of 2340 MW each. Additionally, the nearby Dresden Generating Station (2018.6 MW) and the Kendall County Generation Facility (1256 MW) further emphasize the mix of energy sources in the region. While Grand Ridge primarily focuses on wind energy, its proximity to these large-scale nuclear and gas plants showcases the complementary nature of diverse energy sources in maintaining grid stability and reliability. In the context of the broader U.S. energy profile, wind energy is increasingly recognized as a clean and renewable resource that can significantly reduce carbon emissions. As the nation seeks to meet ambitious climate goals, facilities like Grand Ridge Wind Energy Center are essential for expanding the share of renewables in the energy mix. The wind sector's growth not only supports energy independence but also creates jobs and investments in local communities. Operated by Invenergy Services LLC, Grand Ridge represents a commitment to sustainable energy solutions that align with the future of power generation in the United States. With ongoing advancements in wind technology, the facility is well-positioned to enhance its output and efficiency, contributing to the ongoing transition toward a more sustainable and resilient energy landscape.
17 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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