Distributed Wind
This Pika Energy 1.7 kW wind turbine is installed at a residence in Washington State, with Mount Baker in the background. Photo Credit: Pika Energy.
Distributed wind supports our nation's goal to develop a more resilient power system, mitigate energy security concerns and power-quality issues, and deliver cleaner energy to its citizens.
PNNL provides market analysis and policy tools for distributed wind stakeholders that enable increased understanding of the U.S. and international markets, state and federal policies, as well as trends and projections that help accelerate the widespread and intentional implementation of wind technologies.
What is Distributed Wind?
When the public thinks of wind power, they most likely picture large, centralized wind projects with long rows of turbines that generate electricity for distant end-users, but distributed wind projects produce electricity consumed on site or locally. Distributed wind can provide energy for farms, homes, school, businesses, and manufacturing facilities. Wind turbines in distributed applications are found in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. — Alice Orrell, Energy Analyst
Distributed Wind Market Report
Since 2012, PNNL has provided distributed wind stakeholders with statistics and analysis of the market along with insights into its trends and characteristics. By providing a comprehensive overview of the distributed wind market, the Distributed Wind Market Report can help plan and guide future investments and decisions by industry, utilities, federal and state agencies, and other interested parties.
Distributed Wind Database
Large amounts of project, cost, supply chain, and employment data are collected from turbine manufacturers, operations and management providers, state and federal agencies, and other stakeholders. Tracking, storing, and analyzing distributed wind market data is critical for identifying trends, opportunities for growth, and prioritizing investments for both U.S. Department of Energy and industry stakeholders. Making this information available allows interested parties to better understand market size, levelized cost of energy, economic impacts, and industry employment.