The wind industry has come a long way since the early windmills of the prairie, when wind was used to bring water up from the ground. In the 1970's wind turbines were noisy and not as attractive as the newer streamlined models of today. There was very little documentation to deal with proper siting techniques and wildlife concerns. Compare the older turbines to "1980 four by four trucks" and today's turbines to the new 2010 hybrid vehicles.

Wind energy is a good idea for local economies, providing jobs and promoting energy independence. The energy provided is low maintenance and reliable, and is an inexhaustible resource. Wind turbines are a cultural icon in that they engage age old technology. The use of renewable energy conserves energy resources for future generations. One megawatt hour of wind can prevent the loss of up to 600 gallons of water from fossil fuel power plant cooling. (Source: American Wind Energy Association; Utah League of cities & Towns)

The U.S. Department of energy has set a goal for wind generation: "20% BY 2030". Wind power is capable of becoming a major contributor to America's electricity supply over the next three decades, according to a report by the U.S. Department of Energy. The groundbreaking report, 20% Wind Energy by 2030: Increasing Wind Energy's Contribution to U.S. Electricity Supply, looks closely at one scenario for reaching 20% wind energy by 2030 and contrasts it to a scenario of no new U.S. wind power capacity. The report in its entirety can be viewed at: www.20percentwind.org

Some things to check out:
How Does a Wind Turbine Work
Wind Power Animation