Wind energy makes progress in Ohio
October 24, 2013Ohio is becoming a bastion for wind energy
Wind energy is making promising progress in Ohio. A new report from the American Wind Energy Association shows that wind energy investments have been growing steadily in the state since 2008. These investments have helped bring many wind projects to life, increasing the electrical power generated from wind significantly over the past few years. The growth of wind energy has brought benefits to the state’s economy through the creation of new jobs and the reduced consumption of fossil-fuels.
Investments are on the rise
According to the American Wind Energy Association, wind energy investments reached $775 million in Ohio in 2012. Wind energy generation throughout the state rose to 428 megawatts in 2012, up from the 7.4 megawatts the state was producing in 2008. This is enough to power some 100,000 average homes throughout the state. There are currently 428 utility-scale wind turbines operating in Ohio and wind energy makes up approximately 0.8% of the state’s total energy production.
Wind continues to gain momentum throughout Ohio
While the contribution of wind energy is relatively small when compared with the rest of the state’s energy production systems, wind is beginning to pick up momentum. Ohio is considered to be the state where wind energy is showing the most growth in the country. Developers from around the U.S. are coming to Ohio to take advantage of the wind resources the state has access to, as well as the incentives being offered by the state and federal governments.
State aims to receive 12.5% of its energy from renewable sources
Ohio has plans to receive no less than 12.5% of its electrical power from renewable sources by 2025. Wind energy has, thus far, become the state’s leading tool in accomplishing this goal. Solar energy has managed to establish a modest foothold in the state as well, but wind is expected to remain a prominent focus for Ohio well into the future. The development of new wind energy systems has garnered support throughout the state, largely due to the economic benefits that such projects bring.