Overview assessment of potential small electric utility applications of wind energy systems.

A survey of small municipal and rural electric cooperative (REC) utilities was accomplished. The relationship between these small utilities and the mean wind power at their locations was found by locating them on appropriate maps of mean wind power density. Some of the safety, systems and economic implications of WECS deployment by these utilities were discussed. It is concluded that certain financing advantages and geographical considerations make the Great Plains region a strong candidate for the early commercialization of WECS.