The title of this post is an old maxim for writers, a reminder that an example is much more compelling to readers than a factoid.

Fact: Despite turbine shortages, installed wind energy in 2007 far outpaced projections, according to the Worldwatch Institute’s Vital Sign Update (password required, so here’s a summary). The United States added 5,244 megawatts, bringing our total wind capacity to 16,818 megawatts – second to the world leader in wind, Germany.

Example: Much as I would love to travel America to chronicle the growth of wind power (Wait. Can I do that? Is there funding? Call me!), for now we’ll be content to look at some news from a locality affected by the wind power boom. (more…)