Proposed Spring Valley wind farm simulation

What is wind?

Wind power is electricity generated through the capture of wind’s kinetic energy using turbines. When the wind blows, it turns the blades of the turbines that connect to a drive shaft, which turns an electric generator. As long as the sun shines, wind will continue to blow; thus, wind is considered a renewable energy resource. However, alternative power plants must be used to generate energy when the wind is not blowing.

Wind farms produce about 1.3% of the United State’s total energy generation. Nevada currently has 5 wind farms in various stages of development, with the potential of production just under 1,000 megawatts, or enough to power about 200,000 homes.

Why is Wind Energy Important?

• Environment – Because no fuel is burned during the generation of electricity from wind turbines, no pollution is produced; as such, it is considered clean energy.
• Economic – The wind energy industry is growing rapidly in the face of growing concern over the increased costs of fossil fuel production and its emissions.
• Safety – Contributes to our national security