FXSTD – Alternative Energy Center

By: Dushan Vaithilingam
Wind Power may be one of the fastest growing niches in the clean energy market. Wind, generated by the sun’s heating effect upon the planet, moves in a generally predictable pattern, if not in reliable amounts. Where winds are known to be highest and most consistent, wind-powered turbines have been place in large wind farms to harvest the benefit. These giants stand between 200 and 300 feet tall, and their blades rotate between 10 and 22 times a minute. If you have never come upon a wind farm while driving, it is difficult to describe the amazement you feel.

 

In the last three years the use of wind power has doubled world wide. Still producing less than 2% of the planet’s electrical power, wind is becoming increasingly popular. Several countries have begun generating power with off-shore wind farms since the costs involved in transporting and raising parts is lower than on land. Intermittency is the main problem attributed to wind power. Additional research is being done to determine the practicality of raising wind turbines into atmospheric regions where winds are consistent and fast.

 

Because wind power is intermittent by nature, it must be coupled with a secondary source of electrical generation. While wind is used for only a small portion of total energy needs, this isn’t a problem, but it will need to be addressed if the percentages grow dramatically. Wind energy must be used as it is produced since, as yet, there is no way to store the output. On the positive side though, wind is a source of energy that produces no pollution, consumes no fuels and costs very little to generate beyond original expenses.

 

To meet the planet’s growing need for electricity it will be necessary to explore every possible resource. Wind power, like solar power, has the potential to be a significant contributor to meeting the demand.