A Question for the Wind Industry and our governmental agencies focused on renewable energy sources.
A good friend works for the wind energy industry. He was asked about the viability of wind power and why costs might prove so high as compared to alternatives. He then explained all the difficulties he encounters in his job (hard to get to locations, harsh weather conditions, heights). Then he discussed the fact that the electric grid is not set up to carry electricity from these obscure locations (where little electricity is used) to the big cities.
An economic question was posed to him. "How much do land payments (to farmers, ranchers, etc) as well as transmission lines add to the cost?" He was not quite sure and asked why the question was posed.
So here is the question....
Couldn't wind turbines were placed along Interstate and similar highways where there are large medians or setbacks? The NY State Thruway in upstate NY, Rte 130 near Austin, I-90 in central Massachusetts and so on, all have wide grassy areas ideal for wind turbines. And the electricity could be used for the lights, rest stops, and local towns needs. Yes admittedly this would be a small dent in our electrical needs, but wouldn't it make sense? If the argument is that the grid is not set up for the obscure wind farms, couldn't a few wind turbines on this government owned property help alleviate this situation? Also, wouldn't this allow renewable clean energy to be produced closer to areas that need cleaner air?
If there was free land available that is considerably closer to cities; if this land is open and easy to get to and does not pose a visibility risk or a noise problem and birds and such already have hazards to deal with, wouldn't it make sense to place wind turbines there?
Can someone in the industry take a shot at answering these questions?
Comments? Questions? Feedback?