Gulf Coast Wind Farms Become Vital to Texas Energy Mix

July 25, 2017

The Houston Chronicle reports that wind generation capacity along the Gulf Coast has increased sixfold since 2012, from 500 megawatts to 3,000 megawatts. Today, nine wind farms stretch from north of Corpus Christi to Brownsville, and at least four more projects are planned. The Gulf economy benefits from these projects, particularly in rural stretches where jobs and industry are scarce. Duke Energy has invested more than $1 billion to build Los Vientos, five South Texas wind farms. In Willacy County, Duke Energy's two wind farms are the largest private investment. Construction on the first two wind farms generated 300 jobs in the area, created new income streams for farmers and ranchers who lease their land, and generated revenue for local governments and schools.