MassCEC's Commonwealth Wind (CommWind) Program assists appropriately-sited wind energy development in Massachusetts that can help achieve the Commonwealth's goals for a clean environment and a robust economy. 

PLEASE NOTE: This program is NOT related to the Commonwealth Wind offshore wind project.

How many megawatts (MW) of wind power are installed in New England?

As of April 2019, 1,450 MW of wind power were operating in New England.

How many megawatts (MW) of wind power are installed in the US?

As of April 2019, 97,223 MW of wind power were operating in the US..

How many Massachusetts towns have installed wind turbines?

As of June 2018, 45 MA towns installed large-scale (100kW and greater) wind turbines. There are numerous small scale turbines (<100kW) that are not included in this total.

What are MassCEC’s review criteria for wind projects?

  • Sufficient Safety Setbacks
  • Technical Viability
  • Economic Viability
  • Minimal Acoustic Impacts
  • Minimal Shadow Flicker Impacts
  • Minimal Environmental Impacts
  • Compliance with Regulations
  • General Community Support

MassCEC's Acoustic Study Methodology for Wind Turbine Projects establishes a standardized methodology for conducting acoustic studies. Review criteria for wind projects include

  • Sufficient Safety Setbacks
  • Technical Viability
  • Economic Viability
  • Minimal Acoustic Impacts
  • Minimal Shadow Flicker Impacts
  • Minimal Environmental Impacts
  • Compliance with Regulations
  • General Community Support