The Wind Energy Advantage
With growing concerns over global warming, depleting resources, and inflation, governments around the globe are seeking more energy options. Wind energy is a cheap, environmentally friendly, and economical alternative to petroleum and artificial gases. It has been used since the times of the ancient Egyptians. Sailboats, windmills, airplanes and sawmills are all commonly known machines that take advantage of the wind’s tremendous power. Wind energy is considered an endless natural resource because, as long as the sun shines, wind is produced. Wind energy is clean, producing no air or water pollution.
Here is how wind energy works:
The heat of the sun is absorbed at different rates over different parts of the Earth. Air that is situated above land heats up more quickly than that above water. When the hot air from the land expands and rises, the cooler air from the water charges in and creates wind. At night, the opposite effect occurs, when the cool air from the land takes the place of warm rising air above the water. This also occurs over various landmasses such as the equator and other regions with warmer or cooler climates. For this reason, wind energy is an efficient choice for electricity generation. Using large blades, the wind’s kinetic energy is collected and harnessed by a generator, which converts this raw energy into electricity.
Interesting facts about wind energy
California is currently the forerunner in wind energy production, producing twice as much wind energy as everyone else in the USA. The largest wind farm in the world, however, is located in Texas, and consists of 421 wind turbines. Wind energy is growing in popularity. Its use has increased more than fivefold from 2000 to 2007, and continues to rise. The residential wind turbine is becoming more of a consideration for the average home. It is considered a cheaper option that is also better for the environment. Government programs are offering financial assistance in programs known as green energy or green power. At 3.5-4 cents per minute, wind energy is one of the cheapest forms of electricity.
Issues with wind energy
Marine wind turbines are expensive to install due to the large cost of working and maintaining machinery under water. In addition, many animal rights organizations argue the point that large wind turbines are disturbing the natural flight pattern of migrating birds. When these turbines are set up in non-urban areas, the large machinery often obstructs and diminishes the scenic view and landscape. What to do when the wind is not blowing is another question that many developers are currently researching.
For more information, read about wind turbines and wind generators on Allnaturalselection.com.