Reply #10: The transmission losses are minor compared to the quality of the resource

[kristopher]

The rate of increase in power contained in the wind isn't linear.

If a given wind turbine produces X watts in a 10mph wind, it doesn't produce 2X that wattage in 20 mph wind; no, a doubling of wind speed produces 8X the power.

Transmission has been severely and negatively affected by the fragmented (balkanization in the OP) nature of our unbundled system. The main problem is that if an area needs more power there are two ways to get it, one is to build new generation in the area that needs the power and the other is to string new transmission to pipe the power in. Of the two building new generation is usually quicker. So companies are reluctant to invest in making plans to build transmission because there is no guarantee that somewhere along the way, someone will not build a power plant at the end point and negate the need for the line.

It is one of the strongest arguments for stronger central control of the grid - and another reason to vote for a Dem legislature and executive.