The University of Delaware's 2-megawatt wind turbine generates clean power and contributes to renewable energy development in the United States. By reducing the use of fossil fuels, wind power helps limit pollutants produced in generating electricity, supporting a clean environment and human health. The turbine supplies pollution-free electricity for the university's entire Hugh R. Sharp Campus, and a typical turbine of this size can power about 500 average homes. At times it produces more power than the campus needs, and the excess is fed to the City of Lewes' electric grid at wholesale cost with no additional cost to Lewes consumers. The turbine also supports research and student study of salt-spray corrosion, wildlife impacts, and other science, engineering, and policy issues related to renewable energy, helping lay the foundation for offshore wind turbines in U.S. waters. Commissioned on June 11, 2010, it is a Gamesa G90 with a 256-foot tower, 144-foot blades, a total weight of 310 tons, and an operating speed of 9-19 revolutions per minute.