The Department of Energy's Wind Program and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) published a new wind resource map for the state of Michigan. This resource map shows wind speed estimates at 50 meters above the ground and depicts the resource that could be used for utility-scale wind development. Future plans are to provide wind speed estimates at 30 meters, which are useful for identifying small wind turbine opportunities.

As a renewable resource, wind is classified according to wind power classes, which are based on typical wind speeds. These classes range from Class 1 (the lowest) to Class 7 (the highest).  The map shows that the onshore utility-scale wind resources in Michigan are concentrated along the immediate shores of the Great Lakes (especially Lakes Michigan and Superior) and on offshore islands. The Great Lakes themselves have good-to-outstanding wind resource. A large area of Class 3 resource is located northeast of Saginaw on the "thumb" of the state. Specific locations in Class 3 areas could have higher wind power class values at 80 m than shown on the 50-m map because of high wind shear. Given the advances in wind energy technology, a number of locations in Class 3 areas may be suitable for utility-scale wind development.

The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Growth has more information about the validated wind maps. The Web site also lists wind maps at 30 m, 70 m, and 100 m.

Note: Wind resource at a micro level can vary significantly; therefore, you should get a professional evaluation of your specific area of interest.