WINDPOWER

Wind power is energy generated by converting the kinetic energy of wind into electricity, typically using wind turbines. Modern turbines consist of rotor blades attached to a nacelle mounted on a tall tower. The rotor drives a generator, often via a gearbox, though some designs use direct-drive systems. A control system optimizes blade pitch and turbine orientation relative to wind direction (yaw control). Electricity is transmitted through transformers and cables to the power grid. Onshore wind is installed on land; offshore wind is built in seas or oceans where winds are stronger and steadier. Offshore projects generally employ taller towers and larger rotors, which increases capacity but adds cost and technical complexity.

Wind resources vary by location, with capacity factors depending on wind speed and turbine design; typical onshore factors range from 20% to 40%, and offshore factors are higher. Benefits include low operating costs, no fuel emissions during operation, and rapid scalability. Challenges include intermittency and variability, grid integration and storage needs, land use and wildlife impacts, visual and noise concerns, and the energy and materials required for manufacturing and decommissioning.

Global deployment has grown rapidly since the late 20th century, driven by policy support and falling costs. Ongoing innovations include larger turbines, taller towers, offshore floating platforms, and advanced grid technologies to accommodate variable generation, with the aim of increasing wind’s share in clean electricity portfolios. The efficiency of converting wind energy is bounded by Betz’s law, which limits the maximum extractable energy from wind to about 59%.