This map shows that North Carolina has wind resources suitable with utility-scale production. The good and excellent wind resource areas are concentrated in two areas. The first is along the Atlantic coast and barrier islands. The second area is the higher ridge crests in western North Carolina.

A renewable source of energy, wind is organized by wind power classes, which are based on typical wind speeds. These classes span from Class 1 (the slowest) to Class 7 (the peak). Generally, at 150 feet , windpower Class 4 or higher is useful for generating wind power with large turbines. Class 4 and above are considered excellent resources. Specific locations in the Class 3 zones may perhaps have higher wind power classes at 80 meters than displayed on the 50 meter map as a consequence of potential high wind shear. Given the improvements in equipment, some areas in the Class 3 areas may suitable for utility-scale wind power company development.