U.S. Military Harvests Wind Power

Wednesday, 09 April 2014 00:00 Katerina Oskarsson
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The U.S. F.E. Warren Air Force Base in Wyoming installed the first Air Force wind project expected to save over $3 million in energy costs over the next 20 years. Also the U.S. Cape Cod Air Force Station (AFS) embarked on two new wind turbines that can produce up to 3.2 MW. In addition to reducing the base’s energy costs, the Air Force earns money by selling electricity to the local electric company when the turbines produce more power than the base consumes. The station is estimated to save more than $600,000 a year, recouping more than 50% of Cape Cod AFS’ annual electric bill. Furthermore, Air Force base, Tin City Long Range Radar Station in Alaska operates a 250 kW wind turbine that is projected to cut diesel fuel at the remote station by 30 to 35% and save up to $443,000 per year in energy costs. Finally, U.S. Navy base, San Clemente Island in California installed three wind turbines to reduce diesel use and save up to $160,000 a year, providing payback for construction costs within 6.5 years.