A single utility-scale wind turbine can prevent the emission of 5000 tons of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere each year. Using wind power results in greater fuel diversity and less dependence on fossil fuels, which are subject to price fluctuations. Wind power will strengthen Colorado's economy by keeping money spent on electricity in the state. It has helped to create wind industry related jobs and to attract companies that manufacture wind turbine components to Colorado. Vestas, a wind turbine manufacturer, is moving its American headquarters to Pueblo, Colorado, and will also build a manufacturing facility - resulting in over 500 new jobs.
Wind farms increase the tax base of the rural counties in which they are located.
Wind energy has been harnessed by man for at least 4,000 years. About 1,400 years ago Persians were using wind energy to grind grain. By 1800, there were an estimated 500,000 windmills in Europe and China. Wind power also played an important role in settling the Great Plains. In 1930 more than 600,000 windmills were at work in the U.S., pumping water and producing electricity.