Ranking as the 100th largest wind facility in the United States, the Walnut Ridge Wind Farm stands out with a capacity of 212 MW, contributing a notable 0.02% of the nation’s total power generation capacity of 1,386,385 MW. This facility, operated by BHE Renewables LLC and commissioned in 2019, plays a crucial role in the growing transition to renewable energy sources within a country that primarily relies on gas for its power generation needs. Situated in a region rich with energy generation facilities, Walnut Ridge is located near several significant plants, including the Lee Energy Facility, which operates on gas with a capacity of 692 MW, and the Big Sky Wind LLC, another wind power generator with a capacity of 240 MW. The presence of such diverse energy sources within a 50 km radius highlights the area's commitment to a mixed energy approach, balancing traditional fossil fuels with renewable options. The technological aspects of Walnut Ridge are centered around its wind turbines, which harness the power of the wind to produce clean energy. This facility exemplifies advancements in wind generation technology, designed to operate efficiently in varying wind conditions, thus maximizing output. The wind energy produced here not only contributes to local grid stability but also supports broader environmental goals by reducing carbon emissions associated with fossil fuel consumption. In the context of the national energy profile, the United States boasts 10,047 power generation facilities, predominantly fueled by gas. Walnut Ridge, while relatively small in the grand scheme, represents the growing shift towards sustainable energy solutions, signaling a future where renewable sources might play a more dominant role. Given its strategic location among other energy facilities, Walnut Ridge is integral to the local energy mix, supplementing the gas-dominated capacity with cleaner wind-generated power. BHE Renewables LLC has made significant strides in renewable energy, and the commissioning of Walnut Ridge in 2019 aligns with the company’s vision to expand its portfolio in sustainable energy generation. The facility not only enhances energy security in the region but also serves as a testament to the evolving landscape of energy production in the United States. As the country continues to explore and invest in renewable energy, facilities like Walnut Ridge will be pivotal in achieving a balanced and sustainable energy future.
7 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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