The Cleveland Plain Dealer carries this story regarding wind power off Lake Erie:
An energy task force will recommend to Cuyahoga County commissioners next month that the region pursue a demonstration project of four to 10 turbines, spinning at least three miles out on Lake Erie.
… turbines sitting at least three miles out could catch fruitful wind speeds averaging 16 mph.
Ten turbines could generate up to 20 megawatts, powering tens of thousands of homes and businesses, officials said.
… other daunting issues include environmental impacts, bird flyways, airport flight paths and shipping channels.
Engineering challenges include anchoring towers in a lake that’s 50 to 60 feet deep. The towers would stretch 240 feet or more above the water and hold rotating blades that, tip to tip, are longer than a football field. The towers must withstand waves and winter ice.
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