Renewable Energy Geography of the US Quiz
Solar, wind, hydro (10 questions).
Renewable Energy Geography of the US Quiz: Quick Study Notes
The geography of renewable energy in the United States is strictly defined by physical landscape and climate zones. From the intense solar irradiance of the Southwest deserts to the high wind speeds of the Great Plains and the massive river systems of the Pacific Northwest, location dictates generation potential.
The Mojave and Sonoran deserts provide the highest solar potential, making California, Arizona, and Nevada leaders in PV capacity.
The Great Plains region, stretching from Texas through the Dakotas, offers the nation’s most consistent and powerful onshore wind resources.
The Columbia River Basin in the Pacific Northwest allows Washington and Oregon to rely heavily on massive hydroelectric dams.
The shallow continental shelf along the Atlantic coast makes the Northeast (e.g., Rhode Island, New York) ideal for offshore wind farms.
Key Takeaways
- Texas leads the US in total wind energy generation.
- California has the highest installed solar photovoltaic capacity.
- Washington state generates the highest percentage of its electricity from hydropower.
- The Hoover Dam generates power for both Nevada and Arizona.
- Iowa generates more than 50% of its electricity from wind, the highest share of any state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which US state produces the most wind energy?
Texas is the overwhelming leader in total wind energy production in the United States, utilizing the high wind speeds of the southern Great Plains.
Where is the best location for solar energy in the US?
The American Southwest, particularly the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts in California, Arizona, and Nevada, offers the highest solar irradiance.
Which river produces the most hydroelectricity in the US?
The Columbia River in the Pacific Northwest is the largest source of hydroelectric power in North America, hosting the Grand Coulee Dam.
Which state relies most on renewable hydropower?
Washington state relies on hydroelectricity for nearly two-thirds of its total power generation, thanks to its river geography.
What is the US “Wind Corridor”?
The Wind Corridor is a region in the central US, primarily the Great Plains, where consistent high-speed winds make it ideal for wind farm development.
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