Humans have been using the power of the wind for thousands of years, from powering boats to pumping water from the ground. Today, right here in Buena Vista, Cherokee, and Sac counties, the wind powers one of the largest “wind farms” in the world. The original Storm Lake Wind Power Generation Facility, constructed on Buffalo Ridge, comprises 259 Zond Z-750 kW wind turbines—the largest turbines manufactured in the United States.
Buffalo Ridge is the most prominent topographical feature throughout the Midwestern prairie. It stretches from South Dakota into Minnesota and Iowa. Winds average 17 miles per hour here, more than enough for commercial generation. The wind project utilizes less than 2% of total farmable acres and the energy is able to be harvested while the land continues to be used for local farming operations.
The Science of Wind Power
The rotor blades of a wind turbine work just like the wings of an airplane. As the air passes over the speciallydesigned blades, “lift” is created. This in turn pulls the blades in a circular motion, which drives an electric generator. Winds will reach approximately 8 mph before the rotor is engaged and the turbine produces power.
Storm Lake has watched as two wind farms have popped up in its back yard. First to be built was the Buena Vista/Cherokee County wind farm followed by the Buena Vista/Sac County wind farm. Combined, the wind farms produce enough power to serve the electricity needs of over 114,000 households.
The wind farms have generated new income for local farmers, boosted the local tax base, attracted tourists, and they deliver clean and affordable electricity to consumers each and every day.
The Storm Lake Chamber of Commerce offers tours of these magnificent wind farms and can be reached at 888-752-4692, or feel free to take a self-guided tour by following the map on the opposite page. After your visit to the wind farms take a look around Storm Lake for unique dining, great shopping, and the scenic Storm Lake.
Storm Lake has watched as two wind farms have popped up in its back yard. First to be built was the Buena Vista/Cherokee County wind farm followed by the Buena Vista/Sac County wind farm. Combined, the wind farms produce enough power to serve the electricity needs of over 114,000 households.