Wind Energy

As a Red River Valley Co-op Power member, your electricity is generated from diverse sources like coal, wind, water and biomass. In fact, Minnkota Power Cooperative, our wholesale power supplier, is a national leader when it comes to wind energy. The cooperative ranked number one nationally among all utilities in 2009 for its percentage of wind energy. The links at right provide some near real-time statistics illustrating the variable nature of wind and how it affects power production.

Wind energy has a positive role to play in our nation’s energy mix. Yet, it is important to be aware of its limitations as well as its advantages.

Advantages

• Wind itself is a free energy source
• No emissions
• Excellent resources in the region
• Meets Minnesota’s requirement for 25% renewable energy by 2025
• Helps reduce load control for off-peak members at times

Disadvantages

• Variable – only available at maximum capacity 40% of the time
• Must be backed up by 24/7 power sources
• More expensive than coal power
• Considered unsightly by some
• Location next to people and flyways causes concern