Efforts to incorporate and expand wind power as a renewable source of electrical energy began in earnest in the 1970's. Federal tax credits offered incentives to pursue research and development in the area of alternate energy sources when fossil fuels began to prove unreliable. Though that energy crisis passed, the resultant wind farms, such as that at Tehachapi, remain. These wind power production facilities continue to expand, encouraged by continuing tax credits and renewable energy programs.
 

According to the Tehachapi Chamber of Commerce, Enron's Victory Garden Wind Power Facility in the Tehachapi-Mojave Wind Resource Area became the number one producer of wind energy in the world in 1993. This facility uses almost 5,000 wind turbines in one of the windiest areas in the world. Wind speeds through Tehachapi Pass average 14-20 mph, at times producing gale force winds for days on ends. The turbines turn themselves on and off in response to wind conditions, and can rotate to intercept the wind when it changes direction. The electricity generated is sold to Southern California Edison for distribution, mainly in the Antelope Valley. Yearly production ranges from 1.0-1.3 billion kWh of electricity each year, enough to support the lifestyles of 500,000 southern Californians, or one million Europeans.
 

In contrast to the facility at Tehachapi, Altamont Pass boasts over 5,000 wind turbines. Yet Altamont Pass generates less electricity, averaging slightly less than 1.0 billion kWh of electricity each year.
 

We can clearly see that wind power is a viable source of energy. What, however, are the specific benefits and drawbacks associated with wind power? http://rotor.fb12.tu-berlin.de/windfarm/tehpost.html