Wind energy in Washington - Essay Example

With the recent emphasis on renewable energy within the United s and throughout the world, the focus upon utilizing ocean currents, wind, and solar power has exponentially increased. However, like almost any other economic decision, there are strengths, weaknesses, and tradeoffs that must be considered. Like any other traditional public utility, the extent to which the community condones and authorizes the use of large wind turbines and is amenable to the unsightly display that such turbine arrays affect on the environment is a primary drawback.

This brief one page paper will seek to consider both the positive and negative aspects of wind turbine arrays and the means by which the communities that house them integrate with their presence.As has previously been noted, the rate of growth and expansion of renewable energy has skyrocketed within the last few years. As such, the prevalence and use of wind power in various populated regions around the United States has also increased. Although these alternative sources of energy account for less than 1% of current energy needs within the United States, they are nonetheless visible and provide a stark contrast to the otherwise unmolested natural environment that oftentimes existed prior to their installation.

Although many environmentalists are happy to have such wind farms in operation, there is a strong level of pushback that exists with regards to the adulteration of key environment as well as a definite contingent of individuals that view such wind farms as something of an eyesore. Conversely, other environmentalists view alternative energy as a necessary means of preserving the planet and are willing to relinquish some aesthetic beauty for progress (Henderson 1).Although both sides have a valid concern, it is the belief of this author that the environmentalist seeking to promote the use of alternative energy are the ones that have the stronger point; both morally and logically speaking.

Due to the fact that renewable energy provides nearly resource neutral power production, it should be in the best interests of all involved to increase the means of production for this particular type of energy, on mountaintops or in fields in prairies etc. Works CitedHenderson, John. "The Big Debate | Puget Sound Off." Puget Sound Off | empower, encourage SOUNDING OFF in your community. N.p., 25 Oct. 2012. Web. 11 Feb. 2013. .