The term “windmill” typically refers to older mechanical devices used for grinding grain or pumping water, but modern structures designed to generate electricity are technically known as wind turbines. This distinction is important when discussing Michigan’s energy infrastructure, which utilizes utility-scale wind turbines to feed power into the electrical grid. Understanding the scope of this technology requires examining the number of these machines, their generating capacity, and their placement across the state.
The Current Count and Capacity
Michigan hosts a substantial number of utility-scale wind turbines, with the total count nearing 1,700 units across the state. As of late 2024, the total number of turbines was approximately 1,693. This infrastructure translates into a significant installed generating capacity, currently standing at nearly 3,800 megawatts (MW).
The state’s wind capacity has seen steady growth, demonstrating an increasing reliance on this renewable source. More than 537 MW of new generating capacity have come online since 2023. This expansion is a direct result of ongoing projects aimed at diversifying the state’s energy portfolio.
Geographic Distribution of Wind Energy
The majority of Michigan’s wind energy infrastructure is concentrated in specific regions of the Lower Peninsula where wind resources are most consistent. The “Thumb” region, bordered by Lake Huron, is the most active area for development due to high onshore wind speeds. Huron County contains the highest number of wind turbines in the state.
Development has also flourished in the central Lower Peninsula, specifically in Gratiot and Isabella counties, which collectively represent a leading area for installed capacity. The state’s largest single project, the Isabella Wind Project (384 megawatts), is situated in this mid-Michigan area. Other large facilities, like the Cross Winds Energy Park and the Meridian Wind Park, are also located in this central region.
Contextualizing Michigan’s Wind Power
Michigan’s nearly 3,800 MW of wind capacity positions the state as a recognizable contributor to national wind energy production. In terms of overall installed generation capacity, the state ranks approximately 12th nationally. When considering the actual electricity generated from wind, Michigan typically ranks around 14th among all states.
The power generated from these turbines is an important component of the state’s energy mix, though it does not yet dominate the portfolio. Wind energy accounted for about 8% of Michigan’s total net electricity generation in 2024. This makes wind power the single largest source of renewable electricity in the state, comprising about 65% of all power generated from renewable sources. However, traditional sources still contribute the majority of the electricity, with natural gas-fired plants providing approximately 45% of the state’s total generation.