Wind Energy
Ten Year Environmental Impact --- (PDF File)
Wind Energy Production Record --- (PDF File)
The
wind blows where it will. You hear the sound it makes but you do
not know where it comes from or where it goes. (John 3:8)
On
June 16, 1997, we began producing electricity from wind turbines.
We had installed two, used Silver Eagle wind turbines with Micon
internal workings. At the time we ventured into this project, just
about everyone told us it was a “bad” idea. Our community
had discussed wind turbines for at least fifteen years prior to the
venture.
 It became evident to us in the mid-1990’s that we had
reached a dead end as to any other avenue to control the cost of
electricity. Wind became a power source the monastery could no
longer overlook. The technology had advanced considerably, yet when
we Sisters ventured into the project we were seen as somewhat naive.
Putting up the turbines and being a pioneer in this work was not
a cake walk. There were many obstacles that had to be overcome and
a lot of convincing had to take place. Whatever the results, we were
committed to share them with anyone who was interested. Consequently,
over the past ten years, we have had many people stop and ask questions
or want classes. We have students, environmental groups, churches,
schools, and businesses, among others, ask us about wind energy.
The
second reason for the Sisters’ interest in wind is that
we are not just concerned about preserving the environment but
in enhancing it. We have a lot of destruction to our environment
and, as you read and listen, preservation of our environment is
a now a major issue on our American minds, as well as globally.
We want to preserve our natural resources for many generations.
Wind energy is more environmentally friendly than most other sources
of energy. It is also less controlled by fewer people. Wind is
a resource we can obtain without plowing big holes in the ground
to access it, or destroy land in the process. It does not take
away productive land. Wind energy does not produce the gasses that
cause global warming.
 In the ten years since we pioneered wind energy
in North Dakota, we are pleased to say it works!!! The wind energy
industry has made major inroads into our State in recent years.
There are now numerous wind farms with more planned for the future.
As for ourselves, we are delighted that the Spirit kept pushing
us to pursue wind as an energy source. We are always looking
at God’s creation as the
best resource given to us to manage with care; therefore, we
hope in the future to update and possibly even expand our involvement
in the wind industry.
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