To understand which states are leading the US towards a greener future, BGB analyzed six key data points to evaluate turbine shortfall and overall wind energy efficiency across the country, including the number of turbines in each state, the estimated monthly output, and number of turbines required to meet residential energy demand.
How many wind turbines are there in the US?
The US is home to over 70,000 wind turbines, each helping the US work towards ambitious climate targets by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving air quality, and enhancing energy security. Beyond environmental benefits, the US wind industry also boosts economic growth, creating over 120,000 jobs in turbine manufacturing, maintenance, and operations.
With a cost of living crisis on the mind of every American, wind energy also provides an attractive alternative to expensive fossil fuel generation or Chinese-made solar panels, with wind turbines in some states already producing enough energy to power every single residential home.
Iowa has over 6,400 turbines generating more than 5.4 billion kWh of electricity per month, producing enough energy to power its 1.4 million homes, leaving a surplus of over 4,000 turbines. Iowa’s open plains and consistently high wind speeds make it a national leader in wind energy efficiency, particularly in addressing residential energy demands.
Oklahoma is home to 5,527 turbines, generating 4.6 billion kWh monthly—enough to power all 1.7 million of the state’s homes while maintaining a surplus of over 3,000 turbines. Its expansive geography and modern infrastructure position it as a major player in the wind industry and a key contributor to meeting residential energy needs.
Leading the nation with 19,137 turbines, Texas produces 16.1 billion kWh of wind energy monthly. This output is sufficient to power all 11.5 million homes in the state, demonstrating the southern state’s commitment to renewable energy and its capacity to fulfill residential energy requirements.
North Carolina currently has the largest wind turbine shortfall, requiring 5,983 turbines to be installed if it were ever to meet the energy demand of its 4.7 million homes.
Pennsylvania doesn’t fare much better, with its 766 turbines not able to satisfy the demand of 5.7 million homes. To make up the difference, the state would need another 5,072 turbines.
James Wood, Chief Design Officer at BGB’s Virginia office, said: “Research like this shows just how important wind is to the US energy mix. The top states showcased in our research show what’s possible with strategic investment in renewable energy infrastructure.
“With the new administration putting a pause on the development of new turbine installations both onshore and offshore, it’s never been more important to illustrate the power of renewable energy and how it can help the average American save on their energy bills.
“Wind energy will play an increasingly pivotal role as the US seeks to grow its energy production. Modernizing existing turbines and expanding adoption in underutilized regions are critical next steps. By taking action now, we can close the gap between leading and lagging states, ensuring that wind energy fulfills its potential to power our homes, communities, and a greener future."
