Wind Power in Oregon
Wind energy is captured when blowing wind moves turbine blades around a rotor, which turns a shaft that spins a generator and transforms mechanical energy into electricity.
Offshore wind turbines
use the same principle, but are sited off the coast where
wind resources tend to be stronger and more constant.
Learn more about energy in Oregon in our 2024 Biennial Energy Report.
Small-Scale Wind
The state also has smaller-scale wind
projects, including several community-owned projects consisting of a few
mid-sized or large turbines, and numerous installations of small turbines
that generate power on-site for homes and businesses. The industry for
small turbines is less developed than the large, utility-scale wind industry.
With the increase of the
Oregon Renewable Portfolio Standard to 50 percent renewable energy by 2040, more wind projects will
likely be built in the state by independent developers and utilities.
Wind Project Development
Developing a wind project is a complex process, particularly due to grid interconnection and transmission access issues. New utility-scale wind projects in Oregon will likely require significant transmission
system investments. Small wind projects (<20 MW) have less impact on
transmission, but require complex system studies that may result in the need for
expensive upgrades to the local grid.