Debate swirls as wind power grows

Giant windmills are popping up on farms, scenic mountain ridges, prairie grass and Indian reservations, dramatically changing the nation’s landscape and spinning a debate about where they belong.

Wind power grew rapidly in 2005, becoming more competitive as natural gas prices jumped and crude oil prices reached record highs. Improved technology, a federal tax credit and pressure on utilities to use clean energy sources helped fuel the growth from coast to coast.