Wind Power Generation Basics
By Arlie Krigel
Wind power is one of the cleanest—yet oldest—forms of energy. Once only found on rural farms, wind turbines are making their way into backyards, modern landscapes, and many, many, business plans. How wind power became one of the fastest growing energies in the world, and where it goes in the future has a lot to do with its historical roots, complicated mechanics, and consumer interest from people like you.
Wind Power History
The history of wind power began in 500 BCE, with wind-powered sail boats along the Nile River. From there, wind power history progressed to China and then Persia, where farmers used windmills to pump water in 200 BCE.
As the technology improved over time, so did windmill applications and fame. By the 12th century, European crusaders had brought wind power technology back home, creating wheat and corn-grinding windmills. These lasted for many years, until Danish scientists created a rudimentary electric version in 1890. These wind turbines were used extensively in the US frontier and other rural country sides, until oil shortage created a new surge of interest in the 1970s. With the government help and consumer interest, modern wind turbines have been spinning ever since.
How does wind power work?
Wind turbines use wind to make electricity. Wind propels the blades, which rotate a shaft, which attaches to a generator to create the power. Size does matter for wind turbines too: in general, the bigger the wind turbine, the more efficient it is. Many commercial wind turbines are often grouped together in patches, called wind farms. But how is a homeowner supposed to install a bunch of giant wind turbines? The answer is small wind.
Wind power for your home
Small wind is the industry name for 100 kilowatt capacity turbines and below. Smaller in both size and capacity, they’re perfect for homeowners and businesses looking to cut bills or become energy independent. Small wind turbines do require sufficient wind speeds and space, however, so they’re not ideal for everyone. You can read more about residential wind power at Renewzle with our articles on Top Five Small Home Wind Turbines and Home Wind Power Options.
Future of Wind Power
The wind industry is going to continue expanding: oil tycoon T. Boon Pickens recently announced a plan to invest $10 billion in the world’s largest wind farm, located in Texas, cities are changing zoning laws to allow wind turbines within city limits, many states are expanding their wind power capacity, and new technology is being developed like a new invention called the Windbelt, which will hopefully create a wind machine ten to thirty times more efficient the ones we have now. There’s never been a more exciting time in wind power history.
Also, ask your congressperson to extend the Renewable Energy Tax Credit, the main federal tax credit supporting wind power generation.
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