Wind Power to Replace Boeing?

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As many know, Boeing made a decision to wind down its Wichita operation by the end of 2013. Boeing has been part of Wichita for 85 years and everyone here is taking it pretty hard.

As I said to one of Meteorological Musings' commenters, I'm certain Wichita will continue to grow and prosper. However, one odd idea that has been floated is to go after wind energy companies to replace the jobs lost from Boeing.

Long-time readers of the blog know that I do not believe wind energy has a long-term future except for niche uses. Now, comes a report from Great Britain that states,

A study in the Netherlands found that turning back-up gas power stations on and off to cover spells when there is little wind actually produces more carbon than a steady supply of energy from an efficient modern gas station.
The research is cited in a new report by the Civitas think tank which warns that Britain is in danger of producing more carbon dioxide (CO2) than necessary if the grid relies too much on wind.
Wind turbines only produce energy around 30 per cent of the time. When the wind is not blowing - or even blowing too fast as in the recent storms - other sources of electricity have to be used, mostly gas and coal.

Given Wichita's location at the geographic center of the U.S. and near the population center of the U.S., there are many companies that would be smart to locate here. We have great people and a wonderful standard of living with a low cost of living. Check us out!

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