How much does a wind system cost compared to other renewable energy or traditional energy systems?
A. Onsite wind can generate electricity for less than 5 cents per kWh in a Class 5 or higher wind area. In PJM, grid baseload power plants generate electricity for 1.5 to 3 cents per kWh. Solar electric or photovoltaic (PV) costs 21 cents per kWh and sustainably grown and harvested biomass (organic matter such as willow trees, switch grass, food waste) can generate electricity for approximately 6 to 7 cents per kWh. Offshore wind cost more than onshore wind because of additional costs which includes: additional construction cost to install the foundation; additional operating costs for a corrosive salt environment and more severe weather; and additional power collection and transmission costs. A 100 MW off shore wind energy facility, in an area with a wind speed of 8 to 8.5 m/s and a capacity factor between 32 to 35, would result in a levelized electricity cost of between 8.5 to 8.9 cents per kWh.
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