Why wind works

The wind turns the blades, which spin a shaft, which connects to a generator and makes electricity. The amount of electricity generated by the wind depends on how much mechanical energy comes from the wind itself. Single, small turbines below 50 kilowatts are used for homes, telecommunications dishes, or water pumping. The electricity generated by a commercial-scale turbine is collected, the voltage is increased at a substation, and is finally fed to high-voltage transmission lines where it mixes with electricity from other power plants and is delivered to customers.

Anemometer : Measures the wind speed and transmits wind speed data to the controller. Blades : Most turbines have either two or three blades. Brake : A disc brake which is applied mechanically, electrically or hydraulically to stop the rotor in emergencies.

Land-based utility-scale wind is one of the lowest-priced energy sources available today, costing 1—2 cents per kilowatt-hour after the production tax credit. Because the electricity from wind farms is sold at a fixed price over a long period of time e. Wind creates jobs. The U. According to the Wind Vision Report , wind has the potential to support more than , jobs in manufacturing, installation, maintenance, and supporting services by Wind enables U.

The United States has a vast domestic resources and a highly-skilled workforce, and can compete globally in the clean energy economy. It's a clean fuel source. Wind energy doesn't pollute the air like power plants that rely on combustion of fossil fuels, such as coal or natural gas, which emit particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, and sulfur dioxide—causing human health problems and economic damages.

Wind turbines don't produce atmospheric emissions that cause acid rain, smog, or greenhouse gases. Wind is a domestic source of energy. That operating range means wind turbines produce electricity between 70 and 90 per cent of the time.

How much they generate at any given point depends on the wind speed. The Secret is Out. Wind is In. To explore the new multi-technology association, go to www. Answering your questions about wind energy While wind energy has enjoyed growing success in many countries for several decades, it is a relatively new contributor to the power system here in Canada.

Wind energy in Canada More wind energy has been built in Canada between and than any other form of electricity generation. Every Canadian province is now benefiting from clean wind energy. Learn more about Canada's wind energy. Did You Know? Target groups. Initial project cost:. Final project cost:.

From EEA Grants:. The project is carried out in:. More information Project website Bulgaria country page. Description The project addresses the need for power generation from renewable energy sources, wind in particular.