by Rebecca Walker — January 29, 2010—As much as 20 percent of the power connected to the grid could come from wind by 2024, according to a new study by DOE’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL).
The report, “Eastern Wind Integration and Transmission Study,” released on January 20, is a technical review analyzing the economic, operational, and technical implications of shifting 20 percent or more of the Eastern Interconnection’s electrical load to wind energy by the year 2024.
The Eastern Interconnection is the largest of three power grids in the United States, running from the East Coast to as far west as eastern Montana. It provides power to more than 70 percent of the U.S. population.
The study concludes that 20 percent wind power is technically feasible, although transmission upgrades and operational changes to the system will be required, regardless of the source of the wind power. Also, while significant costs, challenges, and impacts are associated with a 20 percent wind scenario, substantial benefits could overcome those costs. The study also asserts that reaching 20 percent wind power would require a major national commitment to clean, domestic energy sources.
For more information, see the NREL Web site.
