WIND POWER

It cannot be seen, but when harnessed correctly can be amazingly potent. What is it I am referring to? Wind power. The wind has been a powerful source of alternative energy for a long time; being used by the

Babylonians and Chinese 4,000 years ago to power irrigation pumps.

The Europeans used wind power in the middle ages to grind corn. The very important wind power electricity is even more vital today as we continue to look for green electricity and alternative energy sources.

Currently wind power electricity can be harnessed by erecting a tall tower with a propeller on the top. As the wind blows the propeller rotates, much like a pin wheel, the rotating mechanics then generates electricity.  

A single wind turbine can generate enough power to run certain farm or household devices; however, a wind farm can provide wind electricity to an entire area.

A wind farm is a plot of land that holds a number of wind turbines in order to supply green electricity to an entire area.

The greater the number of wind turbines the more wind power electricity that is produced and the greater the number of homes or businesses that can benefit. One of the most essential keys to a productive wind farm is location.

The location should receive steady and strong winds that blow all the time. The coastal areas, open plains, hill tops and mountain gaps are ideal areas for wind farms. In fact, there are a number of wind farms being constructed off shore where the average wind velocity is about 25 km per hour.

Additionally to the location, the size of the propeller is a major factor in the productivity of the wind electricity that can be generated; the larger the propeller, the more wind that can be harnessed to provide green electricity. By angling the blades correctly the wind harnessed will be used more efficiently.

There are a few disadvantages to using wind power to keep in mind. If the wind isn’t blowing the wind turbines will not produce power. Also, often the most suitable locations for a wind farm holds high real estate values; particularly the coastal areas. Not every available location is ideal as wind towers can block scenery and with the noise generated can be disturbing.

The advantages to wind power electricity are varied; besides the alternative energy produced, wind farms often attract tourists, bringing visitors to the area.

There are no harmful side effects of using wind electricity and no dangerous gases are released into the air. Despite any minor drawbacks, this form of energy makes it one of the cleanest and efficient green energy alternatives available!