Altmont Pass: January 28, 2001, California

Excellent weather today, it is the early afternoon, and the State of California is experiencing a Stage 3 power alert. During our drive today through the old Altmont Pass road, we could see no wind generators working.

I can recall that late afternoon and evening have the best winds, but we heared from many others that the generators seem to never work. We visted along this road quite a few years back, and there was a 60 hertz hum, and a wush sound from the turbine blades as power was generated. On our way back to Silicon Valley via I-580, we saw 3 generators turning out of hundreds. Were they even generating?

The Row to the Hilltop

Verticle Rotor

This kind rotates about a verticle axis.

Wind Farm Still Life

Working Ranch

For cattle, but not electricity, it seems.

Fallen Tower

We did see several fallen towers on our visit today.

Road Less Travelled

Turbine Blades in Bright Sun

At an Entry Gate

Complex Design

If anyone riding through the Altmont Pass area sees that most generators operating, especially in the later afternoon, please let me know, I'd like to offer web surfer the very best knowledge about wind power in California.

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Please email: Justin Milliun