Top 10 Things You Didnt Know About Wind Power (Beginner) 

Learn about wind energy! This is part of the Energy.gov series that shares interesting facts about energy.

• Humans have used wind power for a long time. Early windmills crushed grain or pumped water. Now, modern wind turbines use the wind to make electricity.

• Today's wind turbines are complex machines with about 8,000 different parts. They are much bigger than the traditional windmills on the prairie. Wind turbine blades are around 210 feet long, and towers are over 320 feet tall—taller than the Statue of Liberty. The turbines are also more powerful.

• Faster wind means more electricity. Wind turbines are getting taller to reach higher, windier levels. Check the Energy Department's wind maps to find wind speeds in your area and learn about taller turbines.

• Many wind turbine parts are made in the United States. There are over 500 wind-related manufacturing facilities, providing jobs for over 125,000 people.

• Offshore wind is a big opportunity for coastal cities. Some small projects are already working, and more significant projects are being planned. Learn about the Energy Department's efforts in offshore wind.

• Wind power is widespread. It's in 42 states and territories. Over 35 states had more than 100 MW of wind power at the end of 2022.

• The U.S. has over 144,000 MW of wind power, making it the biggest renewable energy source. In 2022, 8,500 MW of new capacity was added, representing a $12 billion investment.

• Wind energy is affordable, with prices ranging from 1.5–4 cents per kilowatt-hour for recent contracts.

• Wind energy generates more than 20% of electricity in 12 states. Iowa and South Dakota get over 50%, while Kansas, Oklahoma, North Dakota, New Mexico, and Nebraska get over 30%. Overall, wind energy contributed over 10% to total U.S. electricity generation in 2022.