Hydroelectric power in the United States
Hydroelectricity is, as of 2019, the second-largest renewable source of energy in both generation and nominal capacity in the United States. In 2021, hydroelectric power produced 31.5% of the total renewable electricity, and 6.3% of the total U.S. electricity.
The Hoover Dam, when completed in 1936, was both the world's largest electric-power generating station and the world's largest concrete structure.
Hoover Dam power station
US hydropower generated 1949-2008 (blue), and hydropower as percent of total US electricity (red).
Image: Grand Coulee Dam
Wind power in the United States
Wind power is a branch of the energy industry that has expanded quickly in the United States over the last several years. From January through December 2023, 425.2 terawatt-hours were generated by wind power, or 10.18% of electricity in the United States. The average wind turbine generates enough electricity in 46 minutes to power the average American home for one month. In 2019, wind power surpassed hydroelectric power as the largest renewable energy source in the U.S.
Brazos Wind Farm in Texas.
Mendota Hills Wind Farm in northern Illinois
Wind power resource at 100-meters above surface level.
Wind plants by capacity with average wind speeds at 100 meters, 2020.
