Wind Power Generator - "The Energy my Friend is Blowing in the Wind"

In order to use the wind to generate electricity, we need an efficient wind power generator. It must be placed in a suitable area that receives a lot of wind, and it should be placed on a high tower to minimize the effects of turbulence.

The wind power generator consists of propeller blades, and a gearbox and generator which are housed in a casing situated behind the propeller. As the wind changes direction the whole generator housing turns so that it is always facing the wind.

Areas with stronger and steadier winds will produce more electricity. Good locations for wind power generators are coastlines, open plains, hilltops, and mountain gaps where the wind is funneled.

Bigger propeller blades will also produce more electricity, and the higher they are the more wind they will be exposed to. There is a trade-off though blades which are too big or towers which are too high will not be able to withstand storm conditions.

In order to generate more electricity, several wind power generators are usually placed in groups to create "wind farms". If the generators on towers are of sufficient height, the land underneath them can be used for farming.

Wind farms have been criticized for being noisy and ugly. Modern designs are addressing these concerns by making wind power generators that are quieter and by considering the aesthetics of blending a wind farm into the environment. As they become a common sight, the approval rate of wind generators increases. Currently about 80% of people polled are in favor of wind farms.

Wind power is a non-polluting, renewable resource. Taking advantage of this energy source will help to free us from our dependency on fossil fuels. When used in conjunction with solar power and other alternative energy sources like water power and energy cells, we can build a society that is sustainable and healthy for future generations.

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