Wind is caused by the uneven heating of the atmosphere by the sun, variations in the earth’s surface, and rotation of the earth. Mountains, bodies of water, and vegetation all influence wind flow patterns. Wind turbines convert the energy in wind to electricity by rotating propeller-like blades around a rotor. The rotor turns the drive shaft, which turns an electric generator. Three key factors affect the amount of energy a turbine can harness from the wind: wind speed, air density, and swept area.
Negatives of wind energy are:
- High input cost.
- Unreliable source of energy.
- Connectivity to the main grid is an issue.
- Wind turbine pose a threat to wildlife.
- Wind turbine also creates noise pollution.