Oregon Swap

A national push to find and utilize more sustainable energy resources has led the Department of Energy to create many different committees and organizations responsible for promoting renewable energy. In 2002, as part of the Wind Powering America program, the Oregon Wind Working Group (OWWG) was created. This group focuses on raising awareness and increasing participation of companies and citizens in using wind power. This is a process that functions by large, three-blade, wind turbines to convert wind energy into electricity. Wind power also comes in the form of wind mills, which generate mechanical power, and wind pumps, which pump water and can propel ships.The Wind Powering America program is working to use wind power to protect local environments, promote economic development and improve national security by decreasing dependence on foreign energy. According to the Department of Energy, in the last decade the US has increased its wind power output from 2,000MW to 35,000 MW, which is enough energy to power nearly 10 million homes.One of Oregon’s most recent and notable wind power achievements was the construction of the Klondike Wind Power III. Located in Sherman County, this wind farm began commercial operation in 2007 and now can generate up to 375 MW. Another project, currently underway, is the Shepherds Flat Wind Farm. This wind farm, being built in Gilliam and Morrow counties, will have the capacity to produce 845 MW, making it the largest wind farm in the state. General Electric is contracted to complete the 1.48 billion project, which includes 300 turbines across 30 square miles. In a 2009 ranking of wind power production among states, the American Wind Energy Association ranked Oregon 6^th, generating 1, 363MW. The top five included Texas, Iowa, California, Minnesota and Washington (in that order).