Wind Power in Texas
The State of Texas currently produces more wind power than any other state according to the American Wind Energy Association. As a potential provider of wind power energy Texas is ranked second overall. Current production statewide is 4356 + MW with projects now under construction expected to increase that by 25%. The question is why are there no current or planned wind energy projects in the Rio Grande Valley?
I spoke with a representative of the wind power industry who asked not to be quoted. He mentioned that the latest project being constructed is in Kennedy county on the King Ranch which will give some power to the Valley area. He also suggested that I look at wind power maps for the State of Texas. The map above was copied from the State Energy Conservation website which is linked in blogroll.
The Texas Wind Map from the same site shows prevailing wind speeds across Texas. According to the Texas Energy Conservation reports, the best areas for wind power generation are in West Texas and along the Gulf coast.
The American Wind Energy Association believes that Texas can at least triple its current wind energy output. Some have raised concern that events like that which occurred in February where there was a bout of unexpected low wind will be disruptive. Computerized control of powergrids is making it easier to manage power from multiple sources says the AWEA and only further calls to the need for more wind power.