Wind is the fastest-growing source of electricity in the world. One of the coolest things about it, from my perspective, is the possibility that wind turbines could serve as a lifeline for the rural residents and family farmers America claims to love but in actual fact arranges policy as though deliberately to destroy.
I expect we'll be seeing more stories like this one in the NYT.
This new wind farm, called Maple Ridge, is already the largest alternative-energy project east of the Mississippi, and a second phase, which will include 75 more windmills, is scheduled to be built this year, starting in the spring.
Mr. Burke, 58, has pinned the security of his fifth-generation dairy farm on the seven turbines that he allowed to be built on his 600 acres last fall. Each one will generate an annual lease payment of $5,000 to $10,000, based in part on the electricity generated, that will allow the Burkes to stay on their land after they retire.
"For me, this project is an excellent exit strategy," Mr. Burke said. "Having the towers will allow us, when the time comes, to sell the cows, lease the land and keep the farm."
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Jim Gagnepain Posted 12:19 pm
13 Mar 2006
The most promising storage technology is pumping water uphill. This technology already accounts for 90 GWatts, or 3% of the generating capacity of the world. Here's a reference:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grid_energy_storage#Pumped_water_storage
Once the water is pumped uphill, hydroelectric power can be used. Hydro is the most efficient electricity generation on the planet.
I mention this because perhaps some of the reservoir storage areas can benefit farmers as well. Wind it also a good power source for creating jobs in our economy.
Jim Gagnepain
http://home.comcast.net/~oil_free_and_happy/
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Icelander Posted 10:37 pm
13 Mar 2006
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amazingdrx Posted 2:46 am
14 Mar 2006
And recycling waste to produce liquid fertilizer as a low cost alternative to chemical fertilizer derived from fossil fuel sources is another trend that can be wind and solar powered.
The steady income from wind plants, that have almost zero effect on other land uses, is just what family farms need.
http://amazngdrx.blogharbor.com/blog
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