Idaho project triples wind generating capacity, state ranks 15th nationally

The largest wind generation project in Idaho history is now complete and delivering power to Idaho consumers, according to local sources.  The wind farm is a joint venture between GE Energy Financial Services and Exergy Development Group, Atlantic Power Corporation and Reunion Power. 

The $500 million project will provide 183 megawatts of capacity, up from the state's current capacity of 60 megawatts.  Texas leads the nation in wind-generation capacity with 1841 megawatts according to January 2011 data from the Energy Information Administration (data available through October 2010).  Idaho's ranking in wind generating capacity moves to 15th in the nation with the new project, up from 23rd.  From Ocotber 2009 to October 2010, Idaho increased wind generation capacity by only 27 megawatts, an 82% increase.  However, the addition of 183 megawatts reflects a 305% increase. 

Nationally, wind generating capacity continues to increase.  Capacity increased 16.9% in the past year from 6,814 megawatts to 7,953.  However the bulk of the increase came from independent power producers (IPP),  like the Idaho project, rather than traditional electric utilities.  The following chart breakdowns the past year's growth in capacity by sector.  Traditional electric utilities increased their wind generating capacity by 11.7% in the past year, while IPPs increased capacity at an annual rate of 17.7%. 

Data Source