Where Are the Best Places in the US for Wind Turbines?

By Robert Palmer

The United States is a world leader in the use of wind turbines to generate electricity. Wind turbines are used to provide clean, renewable energy to homes and businesses across the country. But where are the best places in the US for wind turbines?

The answer depends largely on the type of wind turbine being used.

Large-scale commercial turbines, such as those found in large wind farms, require steady winds and a higher average wind speed than smaller residential turbines. For these turbines, an area with consistent winds that have an average speed of at least 9 miles per hour is ideal. The Great Plains states of Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming and Nebraska have some of the best conditions for large-scale commercial wind turbines.

Residential-size turbines are much more versatile than their large-scale counterparts. They can be installed almost anywhere that has an average wind speed of at least 6 miles per hour.

In addition to the Great Plains states mentioned above, many coastal areas have ideal conditions for small-scale residential wind turbines. Places like Oregon, Washington and Maine all have good potential for residential-sized wind turbine installations.

Wind Shear

In addition to average wind speed, another important factor to consider when looking for good locations for installing wind turbines is wind shear. This term refers to how much the speed of the wind changes with altitude and is an important consideration when assessing potential sites for large-scale commercial turbine installations.

Wind Patterns

Another factor to consider when choosing a location for installing a turbine is wind patterns. Wind patterns can vary greatly from region to region and can be affected by local topography or weather systems. Different types of terrain can cause certain areas to experience stronger winds than others.

Conclusion

When it comes to finding the best places in the US for installing wind turbines, it’s important to consider factors such as average wind speed, wind shear and local wind patterns. Coastal areas like Oregon and Washington are great places for residential-sized installations while states like Montana, North Dakota and Nebraska offer excellent conditions for large-scale commercial installations.