Interactive U.S. Map Shows The Power of Wind Energy

Wind energy is one of the fastest-growing sectors of renewable energy in the U.S. Over four per cent of the total electricity in America was generated by wind turbines in 2013, which is equivalent to the annual electricity use for about 12 million households. Now, showing the power of wind energy, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) has created an interactive map that shows the 47,000 ground-based wind turbines in the country. This special map uses high-resolution aerial imagery and data from the Federal Aviation Administration to create a national chart that can be zoomed in on to see specific facilities and even individual turbines. The map supports the rapidly growing numbers for wind energy.

The U.S. Department of Energy’s report, 20% Wind Energy by 2030, projects that wind power could supply 20 per cent of all U.S. electricity by that date. These numbers tell the tale: even without a comprehensive national energy policy, wind power is on its way to becoming a well-established source in the renewable energy market. Therefore, this USGS wind map will help to assess the impacts of wind energy development on wildlife at a national scale.

To continue reading, click here

Image Credit: USGS

Sangeeta Haindl enjoys being a staff writer for 3BL Media/Justmeans on topics - Social Innovation, Social Enterprise and Social Entrepreneurs. When she is not writing for 3BL Media/Justmeans, she wears her other hat as owner of Serendipity PR. Over the years she has worked with high-profile, big, powerful brands and organisations within the public, not-for-profit and corporate sectors; and won awards from her industry. She believes in the power of serendipity for business and superheroes. She also is a Twitter lover and believes that social media is a digital constellation:connecting people in an easily explored galaxy. She would also describe herself as a Spiritual Entrepreneur, Conscious Explorer and Futurist. She enjoys helping others, paying it forward and being a mum.