California Wind Power Blows Away Production Record

New all-time high for wind energy set Sunday

FOLSOM, Calif.--()--Wind power is gaining speed. The California Independent System Operator Corporation (ISO) reports a new record was set when turbines spinning within the ISO power grid combined to produce a new record of 4,196 megawatts (MW) at 6:44 p.m. on Sunday. The ISO is the main operator for the state’s high voltage network, serving about 80 percent of the Golden State.

On Friday, total wind levels surpassed the 4,000 MW milestone when 4,095 MW helped to power California. Previously, the all-time record peak output for wind energy was 3,944 MW on March 3, 2013.

“With these impressive wind production levels, California is well positioned to meet the 33 percent by 2020 green power goal,” said ISO President and CEO Steve Berberich. “Our control center operators are tracking a steady increase in renewable energy and we are leveraging the latest forecasting technology as well as complementary flexible resources to capture and optimize this carbon-free power supply.”

There is a total of 5,899 megawatts of wind plant capacity installed within the ISO grid. Not all of the wind power was available yesterday as a result of routine generation and transmission outages. California is now the second largest producer of wind power next to Texas. The independent system operator ERCOT, which serves about 80 percent of the Lone Star State, reports 10,407 MW of wind generation installed and achieved a record peak of 9,481 MW on February 9, 2013.

California ISO Media Hotline | 888.516.6397
250 Outcropping Way | Folsom, California 95630 | www.caiso.com
Follow us on Twitter | http://twitter.com/CalifornialSO

The California ISO provides open and non-discriminatory access to one of the largest power grids in the world. The vast network of high-voltage transmission power lines is supported by a competitive energy market and comprehensive grid planning. Partnering with about a hundred clients, the nonprofit public benefit corporation is dedicated to the continual development and reliable operation of a modern grid that operates for the benefit of consumers. Recognizing the importance of the global climate challenge, the ISO is at the forefront of integrating renewable power and advanced technologies that will help meet a sustainable energy future efficiently and cleanly.

Contacts

California ISO
Stephanie McCorkle, 888-516-6397
smccorkle@caiso.com
or
Steven Greenlee, 888-516-6397
sgreenlee@caiso.com

Contacts

California ISO
Stephanie McCorkle, 888-516-6397
smccorkle@caiso.com
or
Steven Greenlee, 888-516-6397
sgreenlee@caiso.com