North American Windpower: AWEA: Hurricane Sandy Had Minimal Impact On U.S. Wind Turbines

by NAW Staff on Monday 05 November 2012

Hurricane Sandy had a minimal impact on wind energy projects in the U.S., the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) reports on its blog.

According to the reports obtained by AWEA from 68% of wind farm operators with projects in Sandy's path, the storm had a small effect on some turbines, but most of those turbines began generating electricity after the storm ended.

However, some companies - including the operator of five turbines near Atlantic City, N.J. - have not yet been able to inspect all of their turbines, AWEA says, adding that another unnamed company that owns a project in West Virginia has not restarted the wind farm yet because the site is located in the mountains and the roads are blocked by snow and fallen trees.

Although wind turbines are designed to tolerate winds of up to 120 mph to 135 mph, they typically shut down at wind speeds of about 55 mph and rotate to face the wind with their blades feathered in order minimize damage, AWEA notes.

More information is available on AWEA’s blog.

Don't miss the latest wind energy news -- register to receive NAW's news headlines.

Latest Top Stories

As U.S. DOJ Investigates, Duke Works Adaptive Management Plan

With previous golden eagle fatalities reported at two company-owned wind farms in Wyoming, Duke Energy Renewables is going to great lengths to protect raptors.

DOE To Recast Landmark 20% Wind Energy Report; Study Looks Back, Ahead

The U.S. Department of Energy will update its 20% Wind Energy By 2030 report, which indicated increased levels of wind penetration for the U.S. is not only possible but feasible.

Wind Energy Procurement Top Of Mind For Big-Name Companies

With greater frequency, top-tier companies are discovering the economic and environmental power of wind energy and upping their investments in the resource.

WINDPOWER Panelists Issue A Call To Arms: Protect RPS Mandates

Votes on several legislative bills concerning state renewable portfolio standards (RPS) are nearing. How can you help protect and maintain these development drivers?

Wind Industry Still Awaits First Eagle-Take Permit Under BGEPA

The first wind developer to apply for a take permit under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act has withdrawn its application.