Global Wind Day highlights wind energy advancements

Global Wind Day is a worldwide event that occurs annually on June 15^th and is a day for celebrating wind energy resources. Individuals from around the world will join in solidarity to recognize wind energy for creating local jobs and generating clean electricity.

Here in the United States, we have much to celebrate for this year’s Global Wind Day. For every megawatt of wind energy capacity installed, about 300 homes can be powered for a year. Just last year, the U.S. installed 13,000 megawatts — a record breaking year. Today, over 60,000 megawatts of wind energy exist in the country providing enough energy to power about 14.6 million homes.

Onshore wind farms have been proposed in Virginia and the state is evaluating offshore resources for development, too. Virginia’s combined onshore and offshore wind resources could provide more electricity than the state’s current electricity needs. The U.S. Department of Energy predicts that up to 20,000 manufacturing jobs could be created in Virginia by 2030 and some companies have already set up shop in the state to help service the domestic and international wind industry markets.

While we are glad to see several wind farms proposed in Virginia, the state should continue to look for opportunities to further develop its abundant wind resource. Until then, we’ll just have to enjoy the high quality jobs that already exist here for the wind industry and celebrate Global Wind Day not just today, but every day.

Remy Pangle
Associate Director
Virginia Center for Wind Energy