Wind turbines are multiplying across the U.S., with most installed in rural areas. In the past decade, wind power has accounted for 27% of new energy generation. A majority of the penetration has been in the central U.S., with regional grid networks Southwest Power Pool (SPP) and Midcontinent Independent System Operators (MISO) reporting that wind represented 87% and 47% of new generation sources.
Wind ordinances on the city, county, and state levels may be difficult to understand, whether you are an expert or just becoming familiar with the industry. This guide is meant to assist policymakers in discussing wind energy ordinances and designing well-balanced regulations. It is an update to the 2018 wind resource guide from the Center for Rural Affairs to incorporate new information from our expanded siting resources and technological advances in the wind industry.
