Generating Electricity

Wind Energy is said to be the fastest growing source of renewable energy. This process of converting wind to energy has grown majorly from 2000-2006. It has become a reliable source of electricity for people all around the world. This is because wind turbines are able to produce electricity constantly- about 70% of the time. Some consider this source of energy "permanent" because as long as wind and the sun are available, wind energy is able to be produced. It is said to be permanent because wind never stops blowing everywhere at once. Industry experts anticipate that if wind energy continues to grow at such a rapid rate, by 2050 it will account for 1/3 of the world's electricity needs.

How Does It Work?

Wind power begins with the sun. As the sun heats an area of land, the atmosphere is also warmed. Some parts of the Earth receive direct rays from the sun all year and are continuously warm. Other places receive indirect rays, so the climate is colder. Warm air, which weighs less than cold air, rises. The cool air then moves in and replaces the rising warm air. This movement of air is what makes the wind blow. Wind Energy works because of the presence of continuous wind, and wind turbines (large rotating fan-like structures). Wind turbines harness the wind to generate electricity. Wind turns the turbine blades around a rotor, which is connected to the main shaft. The shaft is connected to a generator which then spins, producing the electricity. A transformer is then used to ìncrease the electrical voltage, so that the electricity can be transmitted to distribution lines and from there, to homes, businesses, etc. A single wind turbine unit is able to generate enough electricity to provide for at least 500 homes.

Advantages

The fact that wind energy is reliable is the reason for it being responsible for 2.3% of Canada`s electricity demand in 2011. This alternative energy has many advantages. For...