 |  Wind energy is one of the fastest growing renewable technologies in the world today, and it’s one of the technologies that has been around the longest time. Tall wind turbines or mills have been converting the kinetic energy of air in motion into mechanical and electrical energy for centuries. New technology has enabled us to
harvest more and more of this energy.
Wind is created by the earth spinning on its axis and by temperature and pressure gradients in the atmosphere. These gradients are caused by uneven solar heating of the earth’s surface. For example, the ocean heats up much slower than the land, causing morning breezes to blow from the high pressure air over the ocean toward the low pressure air over the land. Electricity is produced when the wind turns long blades of a turbine, which then turns a generator. The electricity produced this way is “green,” meaning that it is produced with no air pollution and no emission of greenhouse gases.
Generators are a relatively simple technology that convert kinetic energy, or motion into electrical energy. In all generators, a turbine is moved by some force (wind, water, steam). This turbine is basically a fan that rotates a large coil of copper wire. This coil is surrounded by large magnets. These magnets pull on the electrons in the copper as the wire spins. Some electrons get pushed to the end of the coil of copper wire, and out of the generator. This flow of electrons is electricity.
There are many advantages to wind power. The technology to install wind turbines is available now. In fact, according to Wind Power Magazine, the wind turbine industry has seen impressive growth in the last few years, with many new turbines installed around the world. Good wind power sites usually share a certain set of criteria. The first is that there must be a good wind resource. Additionally, it helps if the site is close to existing roads and power lines. Not all sites are suitable for wind development. Some areas of the world simply aren’t windy enough. Some communities, for example those that rely on tourism or natural aesthetics, may be concerned will the appearance of the turbines. The impact that the installation and maintenance of towers may have on wilderness areas is also of concern.
However, there are locations, such as farm fields, where wind towers are being welcomed. Wind generation can help farmers generate extra income without requiring valuable farm land or extensive new development. Towers can be sited away from bird migration routes, greatly reducing the threat to avian life.
Wind power is a great source of clean, renewable energy. But, like any of the sources for renewable energy, it has limitations. In order for wind power to be sustainable, it will be necessary to address the issue of negative impact on local wildlife, people and economies. Ultimately, the transition to sustainable energy will require using a variety of sources in concert. Wind power is one of the most promising renewable energy technologies available today for reducing our consumption of fossil fuels and making the transition to sustainable energy. | |
