Pleasant Valley Wind Farm, ranking as the 1382nd largest power generation facility in the United States, boasts a capacity of 200 MW, contributing to a mere 0.01% of the nation's total electricity generation capacity of 1,386,385 MW. Commissioned in 2015 and operated by Northern States Power Co - Minnesota, this facility exemplifies the growth of wind energy within the region. As the 147th largest wind plant out of 1142 in the country, Pleasant Valley Wind Farm reinforces the commitment to renewable energy sources in an area predominantly reliant on natural gas. The facility employs advanced wind turbine technology to effectively capture and convert wind energy into electricity. This conversion process not only supports the local energy grid but also aids in the transition to more sustainable energy practices. The emphasis on wind energy is especially pertinent given the current focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change impacts. Geographically, Pleasant Valley Wind Farm is positioned within a notable energy cluster that includes several significant plants, such as the Pleasant Valley (MN) Gas Facility, which has a capacity of 467.8 MW, and the Pioneer Prairie Wind Farm at 300 MW. Additionally, Turtle Creek Wind Farm LLC, producing 200.1 MW, and Barton Windpower LLC at 160 MW further highlight the diverse energy landscape in the area. This clustering of facilities enables a more resilient power grid, while also showcasing the ongoing shift towards renewable energy sources in Minnesota. In the context of the U.S. energy profile, the role of Pleasant Valley Wind Farm is pivotal, particularly as the nation seeks to diversify its energy portfolio beyond fossil fuels. Wind energy stands as a crucial component of this diversification, and while the facility’s contribution may seem small in national terms, its impact on the local grid and commitment to renewable energy cannot be understated. As the world progresses towards cleaner energy solutions, Pleasant Valley Wind Farm represents a significant step forward in the utilization of wind resources in Minnesota. The ongoing development and operation of wind energy facilities like Pleasant Valley Wind Farm not only contribute to energy security but also foster environmental sustainability. This facility is poised to play a vital role in the future of energy production in the region, supporting the transition to a greener, more sustainable energy landscape.
11 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.
Help us improve our database by reporting any corrections or updates. Your contribution helps keep our global power plant data accurate and up-to-date.