Mountaineer Wind Energy Center: West Virginia's Pioneering Wind Farm
The Mountaineer Wind Energy Center stands as a landmark of renewable energy in the eastern United States. Situated atop the rugged terrain of Backbone Mountain, this facility spans across Preston and Tucker counties in West Virginia, harnessing the natural wind currents of the Appalachian highlands to generate clean electricity.
When the center first came online in December 2002, it marked a historic milestone as the first wind farm established in West Virginia. At the time of its commissioning, it held the distinction of being the largest wind power installation east of the Mississippi River, signaling a shift toward diversified energy portfolios in the region.
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Technical Specifications and Infrastructure
The facility is an onshore wind farm, meaning the turbines are located on land rather than in the ocean. To achieve its energy goals, the center utilizes NEG Micon wind turbines, each boasting a capacity of 1.5 megawatts (MW). These turbines convert the kinetic energy of the wind into electrical power through aerodynamic blades and a generator.
The total nameplate capacity—the maximum theoretical power output the plant can produce under ideal conditions—is 66 MW. This capacity allows the center to contribute a significant amount of carbon-free energy to the regional power grid.
Ownership and Energy Distribution
The Mountaineer Wind Energy Center is owned and operated by Florida Power & Light. While the facility is located in West Virginia, its operational management is handled by this utility provider.
The electricity generated at the site is purchased by Exelon Generation. To ensure the energy reaches consumers, Exelon markets the power across the Mid-Atlantic region through a strategic partnership with Community Energy, Inc., one of the leading wind energy marketers in the United States.
Key Facts
- Location: Backbone Mountain, Preston and Tucker counties, West Virginia, USA.
- Operational Start: December 2002.
- Capacity: 66 MW nameplate capacity.
- Technology: NEG Micon 1.5 MW turbines.
- Ownership: Owned and operated by Florida Power & Light.
- Historical Significance: First wind farm in West Virginia and previously the largest east of the Mississippi River.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | 39°11′02.5″N 79°32′08.2″W |
| Turbine Model | NEG Micon 1.5 MW |
| Total Capacity | 66 MW |
| Operator | Florida Power & Light |
| Energy Marketer | Community Energy, Inc. (via Exelon Generation) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Mountaineer Wind Energy Center located?
The center is located on Backbone Mountain, spanning Preston and Tucker counties in West Virginia, United States.
Who owns and operates the facility?
The wind farm is owned and operated by Florida Power & Light.
What is the total power capacity of the wind farm?
The facility has a nameplate capacity of 66 MW, utilizing NEG Micon 1.5 MW turbines.
Why was the Mountaineer Wind Energy Center historically significant?
Upon its opening in December 2002, it was the first wind farm in West Virginia and the largest wind energy project located east of the Mississippi River.
How is the electricity from the farm distributed?
Exelon Generation purchases the power and markets it throughout the Mid-Atlantic region in partnership with Community Energy, Inc.