World Power Plants

Ranked as the 1519th largest power generation facility in the United States, the Intrepid Wind Farm plays a modest yet crucial role in the renewable energy landscape of Iowa. With a capacity of 175.5 MW, this wind farm, operated by MidAmerican Energy Co, contributes a mere 0.01% to the national capacity, which stands at an impressive 1,386,385 MW across 10,047 plants. However, its significance lies not only in its contribution but also in its positioning among a network of wind facilities that underscore the state’s commitment to clean energy. Commissioned in 2005, Intrepid ranks as the 214th largest wind plant out of 1142 across the United States, marking it as a notable contributor to the local grid. The facility utilizes advanced wind turbine technology to harness the plentiful winds of the region, transforming kinetic energy into clean electricity. This process not only supports the local economy but also contributes to the fight against climate change by reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Within a 50-kilometer radius of Intrepid, there are several other significant wind plants, including Ida Grove Wind at 301.1 MW, Glaciers Edge Wind Project at 211.7 MW, and Ida Grove II at 201 MW, all of which highlight the area’s strength in wind energy. In contrast, the nearby Carroll Wind Farm and Storm Lake 1, with capacities of 159.1 MW and 113.9 MW respectively, add to the regional energy mix, demonstrating a robust community of renewable energy generation. Iowa’s energy profile is dominated by natural gas, yet the growing number of wind facilities like Intrepid represents a shifting trend towards renewable sources, aiming to diversify the energy portfolio and enhance sustainability. As the nation continues to grapple with climate issues, Intrepid Wind Farm serves as a reminder of the potential of wind energy in contributing to a renewable future. The facility not only aids in reducing carbon emissions but also provides economic benefits through job creation and energy independence for the state. Looking ahead, the role of wind energy, particularly from plants like Intrepid, is set to expand, aligning with national goals for sustainable energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Capacity
175.5 MW
Commissioning Year
2005

21 years old

Owner
MidAmerican Energy Co
Location
42.5539°, -95.3283°

United States of America, North America

Context & rankings
  • 1,570. largest of 10,098 plants in United States of America
  • #7,896 worldwide by installed capacity
  • #378 of 5,731 Wind plants worldwide
  • 0.01% of the installed capacity of United States of America
Age & fleet comparison

21 years in operation

Wind fleet average: 14.4 years

Operator portfolio

MidAmerican Energy Co operates 45 plants totalling 11,395 MW

Regional density

43 plants within 100 km, 4,792 MW combined

Nearest plant: Alta Municipal Utilities (13.5 km)

Location

Coordinates:: 42.553900, -95.328300
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Carbon Footprint

Zero Direct Emissions

Intrepid is a wind power plant producing approximately 461 GWh of clean electricity per year with zero direct CO₂ emissions during operation.

Lifecycle emissions: ~11 g CO₂/kWh (manufacturing, transport, decommissioning)

Technical Details

Primary Fuel Type
Wind
Energy Source
Renewable
Country
United States of America
Continent
North America
Data Source
Global Power Plant Database

United States of AmericaEnergy Profile

10,098
Total Plants
1420.7 GW
Total Capacity
GasCoalNuclearWind
Top Fuels

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