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Sources of Wind Power Energy

Wind energy is clean, almost inexhaustible and, best of all, free. These factors make wind power a fast-growing energy source in the United States and other parts of the world. The wind turbine is the primary technology for converting wind to usable energy. These simple-looking machines come in a variety of sizes and shapes, but all harness the wind itself as the source of energy.

  1. History

    • Wind power is not new. The image that first comes to mind for many, when discussing wind power, is that of Dutch windmills powering the mill. Many centuries before the first of those were built, though, boats traveling down the Nile River were powered by wind as early as 5000 BC, according to wind historians. The first water-pumping and grain-grinding windmills were built around 500 AD in Persia and China, and the technology soon spread to other places in the world.

    Advantages

    • As long as the wind is blowing, energy is harnessed.

      After the initial outlay of funding is made for the wind turbines, they begin to save cities and companies money on their energy costs -- if there is enough wind to power them. The energy they provide, as noted, is environmentally clean, renewable and free (excluding set-up and maintenance). However, some areas do not get enough wind to consistently produce a sufficient amount of energy to be cost-effective.

    Disadvantages

    • Wind turbines are usually far from population areas.

      Though from afar it appears they move silently, the motors that power wind turbines can sometimes be noisy and disruptive. This can make placement difficult, as the machines need to be far enough away from populated areas to operate without disturbing people. In addition, birds are sometimes the victims of turbine fan blades, particularly during migration season. New technology is helping to alleviate both of these issues. At some point, wind energy may be quiet and safe for wildlife.

    Personal Wind Power

    • Some wind turbines are small enough to power one home.

      Not all wind turbines are behemoths soaring hundreds of feet in the air. Some are small enough to use to power a single home. The initial financial outlay for a personal home wind system can be significant, but it could save you money over time. Research the best possibilities in your area and for your lifestyle to determine if wind power is best for your needs.

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