Ranked as the 1624th largest power generation facility in the United States, Hopkins Ridge Wind stands out as a significant contributor to renewable energy in the Pacific Northwest. With a capacity of 156.6 MW, this wind energy facility, operated by Puget Sound Energy Inc and commissioned in 2005, plays a vital role in diversifying the energy matrix of the region. The facility harnesses wind energy through state-of-the-art turbines, which convert wind flow into electricity, contributing to a cleaner environment and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. Located near the convergence of several hydroelectric plants, including the 810 MW Little Goose and Lower Granite facilities, as well as the 342.7 MW Lower Snake River Wind Energy Project, Hopkins Ridge Wind is part of an emerging energy cluster that enhances grid reliability and promotes sustainable growth. While its output constitutes merely 0.01% of the total national capacity of 1,386,385 MW from 10,047 plants, its impact lies not just in numbers but in the shift towards renewable sources. The United States predominantly relies on gas for energy generation, making Hopkins Ridge's wind energy output a vital player in the country's ongoing energy transition. As one of the 251 wind plants in the U.S., it ranks 251st in its fuel category, underscoring the growing importance of wind power in meeting national and regional energy demands. The facility's strategic location allows it to support the regional grid, ensuring that renewable energy is effectively harnessed and utilized. Looking ahead, Hopkins Ridge Wind will be crucial in addressing the challenges posed by climate change while simultaneously providing economic benefits through job creation in the green energy sector.
21 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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