Wind Power

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Overview of Wind Power

Wind energy is generated when the kinetic energy of the wind is harnessed by large wind turbines and converted into mechanical energy. To generate electricity, this mechanical energy is used to rotate generators situated in the hub of each turbine. Wind turbines can range in size from small home or boat based 50W units to the large 6MW commercial units which have an overall height of nearly 200m.

Wind turbines for commercial power generation are generally arranged in an array, collectively called a wind farm. Wind farms are typically located in areas where a consistently high level of wind is present. The performance of wind turbines increases exponentially with the linear increase in wind speed. Therefore consistent strong winds are critical to the financial viability of a wind farm. Wind speeds are stronger at higher elevation levels, and on top of smooth hills, which is why most wind turbines are mounted on high masts and on top of hills where possible.

Electricity generated from all the turbines in the wind farm is combined and modified to feed into the power transmission network in the area.

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