Overview
NBC Field's Point Wind Farm is an operational onshore wind facility in Rhode Island, United States, with a capacity of 4.5 MW, owned by the Narragansett Bay Commission.
NBC Field's Point Wind Farm is an onshore wind energy facility located in Rhode Island, United States. The plant has a capacity of 4.5 MW and is owned by the Narragansett Bay Commission, a public wastewater utility. It is currently operational and contributes to the region's renewable energy portfolio. The facility operates under the regulatory framework of the United States, which includes the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and state-level Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS). Rhode Island's RPS targets 100% renewable electricity by 2033, driving demand for wind energy. Onshore wind farms of this scale are typical for municipal or industrial sites seeking to offset energy costs and reduce carbon emissions. As a wind energy facility, the plant helps reduce reliance on fossil fuels and supports grid decarbonization. Its location in an urban-industrial area minimizes land-use conflicts, though wind farms can face challenges related to visual impact and wildlife, particularly birds and bats. The facility's integration into the local grid enhances energy resilience for the Narragansett Bay Commission's operations.
Environmental context
The wind farm is situated in an urban-industrial area of Rhode Island, where land-use competition is moderate. Onshore wind projects can affect local bird and bat populations through collisions, but proper siting and mitigation measures can reduce these impacts. The facility contributes to renewable energy generation, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and supporting state climate goals.
Frequently asked questions
NBC Field's Point Wind Farm is located in Rhode Island, United States, at coordinates 41.7941 N, -71.3892 W.
The wind farm has a capacity of 4.5 megawatts (MW), making it a small-scale onshore wind facility.
The facility is owned by the Narragansett Bay Commission, a public wastewater utility serving Rhode Island.
Wind energy in the US is supported by the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), which provides tax credits, and state-level Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS). Rhode Island's RPS targets 100% renewable electricity by 2033.
Common concerns include visual impact on landscapes, noise, and potential harm to birds and bats from turbine collisions. Proper siting and mitigation strategies can minimize these effects.