OU and Oklahoma Gas and Electric formed an historic alternative energy partnership on Sept. 10. According to the agreement, by 2013, OU will be powered entirely by wind energy.

“This is a day in which history is being made,” OU President David Boren said at the time. “We intend to be a role model and a leader in energy independence for this country. We’re ready to do it.”

As it stands, Oklahoma ranks 12th in the nation in wind power. Though wind power only contributes to 3 percent of Oklahoma’s energy needs, OG&E hopes wind power will account for 20% of the state’s energy by 2030.

Proponents of wind power cite the potential for job creation and the expansion of renewable energy resources in the state. The Oklahoma Department of Commerce estimates the wind industry could produce $500 million in tax revenue and create 18,000 jobs in Oklahoma over the next 10 years.

However, critics say there are environmental concerns that could dampen enthusiasm for wind energy.

Sue Selman, owner of Selman Guest Ranch outside Woodward, where OU’s wind farm will be built, wind farms disrupt birds’ migrating patterns and damage the habitats of ground nesting birds native to Oklahoma’s prairie lands.

“They want us to ruin our wildlife and our scenery so they can have their energy,” Selman said. “As far as I am concerned, the negatives outweigh the positives when it comes to wind energy.”