The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has issued a Funding Opportunity
Announcement (FOA) for up to $6 million over two years (FY09-FY10) to
address wind development as outlined in the "20% Wind Energy by 2030" report.
Funding will address six topic areas: (1) turbine research, development
and testing; (2) distributed wind technologies; (3) market acceptance
efforts; (4) environmental research and sitting strategies; (5)
transmission analysis, planning and assessments; and (6) workforce
development.
In May 2008, DOE issued the "20% Wind Energy by 2030" report. The
report found that the nation possesses affordable wind energy resources
far in excess of those needed to enable a 20% scenario. However, major
challenges need to be overcome and require action for this to be
possible:
- Major investments in transmission so the power generated in Midwest locations can be delivered to distant urban centers
- Larger
electric load balancing areas, in tandem with better regional planning
and use of complementary generation and storage, so that grid operators
can better integrate wind generation into the electric utility grid - Continued reduction in wind turbine capital costs through technology advancement and improved manufacturing capabilities
- Improved wind turbine performance and reduction of operating and maintenance costs through improved reliability
- Addressing concerns about local siting, wildlife, and environmental issues within the context of electricity generation
- Develop an abundant and skilled workforce to supply the growing renewable energy industry.
Completed FOA applications are due by March 3, 2009. The complete FOA can be viewed on the website below.
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