What is Wind Power?
Wind power is the conversion of wind energy into a useful form, such as electricity, using wind turbines. Wind energy is plentiful, renewable, widely distributed, clean and reduces greenhouse gas emissions, which is a much better option for the environment. Wind energy has quadrupled in the last seven years globally and is only growing.
What are the Benefits?
The main benefit to switching to wind power is the improvement to the environment. Wind power can displace power from fossil-fueled power plants and help to improve on greenhouse gas emissions that are hurting our environment. On average, the electricity generated in the U.S. results in the emission of 1,341 pounds of carbon dioxide. The electricity generated by U.S. wind farms represents about 6.7 million tons of avoided CO2 emissions. Even by switching only your electricity to wind powered, you are helping the environment.
How Can I Help?
Living in an apartment actually gives you a pretty good opportunity to do something good for the environment. Electricity doesn’t cost you an arm and a leg when you live in an apartment; therefore making the switch to wind powered electricity is totally affordable.
Where is Wind Energy Offered?
Many states offer wind energy. All you have to do is visit your local electric company’s website and see if they offer wind energy. You can also explore other companies in your area if your current electric company doesn’t offer it. Texas is the leading state in wind power, with 3.3% of all the state’s energy coming from wind power. Austin, TX leads the entire country in wind power. If you live in an area that offers wind powered energy, you should definitely look into it.
What is the Cost?
The average retail cost of electricity in Texas is 6.25 cents per kwh. Electricity from wind typically costs between 4 cents per kwh and 6 cents per kwh. According to a case study conducted by the Center for Renewable Energy and Sustainable Technology (CREST), consumers in Texas will only see about a 75 cent increase on their monthly bill from using wind energy. The cost will depend on your area and electric company, but for the most part, an increase will not be significant considering the size of an apartment. This allows you to switch to wind power without hurting your wallet and sit back and enjoy your contribution to the environment!
Check with your local electric company to see if they offer wind energy in your city!
