China - New wind-prediction software to help energy planners

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Wind Technology Partnership rolled out a new tool to aid energy planners and wind developers in China's Hebei province. The new Geospatial Toolkit identifies where wind resources lie in Hebei province and their proximity to features like power transmission lines, protected lands and access routes. The province is a priority in China's wind development efforts due to its high wind potential and closeness to major transmission lines and cities. "We all share the same environment," said Bill Wehrum, acting assistant administrator for Air and Radiation. "Working together through this partnership, the United States can assist China in shifting to a greener, more sustainable path." China's high-paced economic growth has fueled a dramatic increase in the country's energy consumption. Wind power is the fastest growing source of renewable energy in China, providing a clean alternative to fossil fuels while displacing greenhouse gas and air pollution emissions. The Chinese government plans to increase installed wind capacity from approximately one gigawatt last year to 30 GW by 2020. The Wind Technology Partnership is a joint effort by EPA, the U.S. Department of Energy, and the Chinese government to increase the use of grid-connected wind power in China.