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Wind Power Energy |
Wind Power Energy
People have been using wind power energy for thousands of years. It was probably
first used to propel sail boats and the Chinese and Babylonians developed
irrigation systems that used the power of wind to pump water. During the middle
ages, Europeans used it to grind grain for flour.
As electricity became commonplace in the United States, many people living in
rural areas used wind generators to provide their own power. Some of these
original wind generators are still around and functional.
Modern wind power, however, has taken advantage of advances in technology that
make wind power energy more efficient than ever. New materials and techniques
allow us to generate a significant amount of power to replace other sources such
as coal burning power plants.
There are many advantages of wind power over fossil fuels. Wind energy is
renewable, whereas fossil fuels will someday be used up. Burning fossil fuels
cause pollution and may lead to global warming, but wind power is clean and safe
for the environment.
Wind power energy is harvested with wind turbines mounted on high towers. As the
wind turns the propeller a generator mounted inside the turbine creates an
electrical charge. Many of these turbines can be installed in the same area to
create a "wind farm". The power from these wind farms can be fed into the grid
of a utility company to supplement the power produced by other sources.
Because the turbines are mounted on high towers, the land underneath can still
be used for farming. Farmers who own land in windy areas can supplement their
farming income by leasing their land for these wind farms.
The best places to produce wind power energy include coastal areas, hilltops,
and areas where wind is funnelled between mountains. These areas usually have
consistent strong winds year round.
Reducing our dependency on fossil fuels is good for everyone. We can
significantly reduce pollution of air and rivers as well as cut down on the cost
of energy by using renewable resources such as wind and solar power. By making
use of these resources for our power needs we are building a better future for
our children and grandchildren.
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