Positioned as the 1660th largest power generation facility in the United States, the Spring Valley Wind Project stands out with its capacity of 150 MW, making it a notable player in the country's landscape of renewable energy. While this facility may hold a modest share of just 0.01% of the national capacity, it contributes significantly to local energy production and exemplifies the growing reliance on wind energy in an otherwise gas-dominated energy profile. The project was commissioned in 2012 and is operated by Pattern Operators LP, reflecting a commitment to integrating renewable sources into the energy mix. Harnessing wind through advanced turbine technology, the Spring Valley Wind Project employs modern wind generation techniques designed to maximize efficiency and output. Its location in a relatively isolated area—over 50 kilometers from the nearest power generation facility—underscores its importance in diversifying energy sources within this region. The absence of nearby plants means that Spring Valley plays a crucial role in stabilizing the grid and providing clean energy to the local community. In a national context, the United States boasts a staggering total of 10,047 power generation plants, with an aggregate capacity of 1,386,385 MW, predominantly fueled by natural gas. Within this vast framework, Spring Valley's 150 MW capacity highlights both the challenges and opportunities present in increasing the share of renewable energy. With wind energy being a pivotal component in the transition to a cleaner energy landscape, the Spring Valley Wind Project exemplifies the potential for growth in this sector, aiming to diminish the reliance on fossil fuels. As a member of the wind energy sector, which ranks 267th among 1142 wind plants nationwide, Spring Valley Wind Project signifies a collective movement towards sustainability. The facility's operation not only contributes to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions but also plays a vital role in the economic development of the surrounding area, creating jobs and promoting technological advancements. Looking forward, the significance of the Spring Valley Wind Project is expected to grow as the demand for renewable energy continues to rise. This facility not only helps in meeting local energy needs but also sets a precedent for future investments in wind energy in the United States. With ongoing advancements in wind technology and the increasing urgency to address climate change, the Spring Valley Wind Project stands as a beacon of progress in the quest for a 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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