Pacific Wind LLC stands as the 1,650th largest power generation facility in the United States, with a capacity of 151.7 MW. This wind farm, commissioned in 2012 and operated by EDF Renewable Asset Holdings Inc., contributes approximately 0.01% to the total national capacity, which is heavily dominated by gas. The technology deployed at Pacific Wind harnesses the kinetic energy of wind through advanced turbines, exemplifying the potential of wind energy within the U.S. energy landscape, which features 1,142 wind plants in total. Ranked 259th among these, Pacific Wind represents a growing sector that is gradually increasing its share of energy production. Its location is particularly advantageous, as it sits within a rich energy cluster that includes significant nearby facilities such as the Castaic Hydro Plant (1,682 MW) and the Alta Wind VIII (1,547 MW), creating a synergistic energy environment. This proximity to larger generation plants highlights the importance of diversification in energy sources, where wind complements hydro and gas generation, thereby enhancing grid reliability and resilience. The broader context of the U.S. energy profile reveals a total capacity of 1,386,385 MW across 10,047 plants, with gas remaining the dominant fuel type. Despite its modest contribution, Pacific Wind plays a crucial role in the ongoing transition towards renewable energy, demonstrating the feasibility of wind power in a landscape primarily governed by fossil fuels. As the energy sector evolves, the presence of wind facilities like Pacific Wind becomes increasingly significant, supporting local economies and contributing to environmental sustainability. The future of Pacific Wind is promising, as it aligns with national objectives to expand renewable energy sources and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, ultimately fostering a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.
14 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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