Wind Study

http://energy.ca.gov/pier/final_project_reports/CEC-500-2006-062.html

and

http://energy.ca.gov/pier/final_project_reports/CEC-500-2006-066.html

Wind energy is a proven sustainable resource that is cost-effective, non-polluting and harmless to the environment. The south-central portion of Siskiyou County is identified as a class-5 (excellent) wind resource area by the Department of Energy. It is only common sense that we develop such energy resources locally when available. See map below:

(click to enlarge)

Wind energy generating capacity in the US more than doubled in 2001, increasing by nearly 1700MW. Wind turbines are getting more reliable and cost efficient, with generating prices as low as 4.3 cents per kilowatt- hour. While proven reliability and greater efficiency exists with both industrial size and small-scale horizontal axis wind turbines, Recent improvements in vertical-axis wind turbine design have shown significantly improved aesthetics and wind gust durability.

The economic benefits of generating our own electricity are obvious. Rural farmers and ranchers all over the country are being encouraged by the Department of Energy to harvest a new crop, wind energy. There is enthusiastic support from local ranchers and landowners in Siskiyou County for learning how to harness this resource, both individually and collectively. A substantial economic bonus for local landowners in a depressed farming and ranching economy would be the royalty earned from hosting a wind farm.

The Department of Energy's Wind Powering America Program