The Tuolumne Wind Project holds the 1767th position among power generation facilities in the United States, marking its significance in the growing renewable energy sector. With a capacity of 136.3 MW, this wind farm, commissioned in 2009 and operated by the Turlock Irrigation District, reflects a commitment to harnessing sustainable energy sources in an area that primarily relies on gas for power generation. Utilizing advanced wind turbine technology, the Tuolumne Wind Project converts wind energy into electricity, offering a clean alternative to traditional fuel sources. This facility exemplifies the shift towards renewable energy, crucial for reducing dependence on fossil fuels and addressing climate change. Geographically, the Tuolumne Wind Project is situated near several significant energy installations, including the John Day hydroelectric plant with a capacity of 2160 MW, and the The Dalles hydro facility at 1819.7 MW. Additionally, the Biglow Canyon Wind Farm generates 449.7 MW, while Klondike Windpower III contributes 297.5 MW. This proximity to a diverse energy portfolio highlights the importance of integrating various energy sources to ensure a reliable and resilient grid. Compared to the national average capacity of 1,386,385 MW across 10,047 plants, the Tuolumne Wind Project stands as a smaller but vital contributor to California's energy landscape. In a country where natural gas dominates energy production, the role of wind power is becoming increasingly critical. The United States features 1142 wind plants, and the Tuolumne Wind Project ranks 327th among them, demonstrating the growth potential for wind energy in the national energy strategy. As the Turlock Irrigation District continues to promote renewable resources, the Tuolumne Wind Project is not only helping to fulfill local energy needs but also paving the way for a more sustainable energy future. This facility’s contribution to the grid reflects a broader commitment to environmental sustainability and economic growth, positioning it as a key player in the transition to a greener energy system.
17 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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