Wind energy potential upgraded in Dakotas

Feb 23, 2010 - The Associated Press

The American Wind Energy Association says there is more wind energy potential in the Dakotas than previously estimated.

The group says a new analysis that takes into account improved wind turbine technology has determined that North Dakota's generation potential is just under 3 million gigawatt-hours, more than double the previous estimate of 1.2 million. That makes the state sixth in wind power potential.

Just ahead on the list at No. 5 is South Dakota, with a wind generation potential now estimated at nearly 3.5 million gigawatt-hours.

The report says that U.S. wind energy resources could generate nine times the amount of electricity now being consumed by Americans.