Advantages of Wind Energy

Excessive heating of earth due to burning of fossil fuels have forced people across the globe to generate power through wind. Wind is another form of solar energy and is caused by uneven heating of the atmosphere by the sun, the irregularities of the earth’s surface and the rotation of the earth. Wind energy doesn’t generate any toxic emissions like fossil fuels and provide clean source of power. Wind power is currently being used extensively in countries like USA, Denmark, Spain, India and Germany. Like any other source of power generation, wind energy has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

1. Renewable Energy: Wind energy in itself is a source of renewable energy which means it can be produced again and again. Unlike fossil fuels that are going to expire in years to come, wind energy has tremendous potential and can be used to produce free source of power just like solar and hydro power. It is cleanest form of renewable energy and is currently used many leading developed and developing nations to fulfill their demand for electricity.

2. Reduces Fossil Fuels Consumption: Dependence on the fossil fuels could be reduced to much extent if it is adopted on a much wider scale by all the countries across the globe. It could be an answer to the ever increasing demand for petroleum and gas products and would help us to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels from other countries. Apart from this, it can also help to curb harmful greenhouse gas emissions which are the major source of global warming.

3. Less Air and Water Pollution: Wind energy doesn’t pollute at all. It is that form of energy that will exist till the time sun exists. It does not destroy the environment or release toxic gases. Wind turbines are mostly found in coastal areas, open plain and gaps in mountains where the wind is reliable, strong and steady. An ideal location would have a near constant flow of non-turbulent wind throughout the year, with a minimum likelihood of sudden powerful bursts of wind. Less pollution in the air and water reduces the risk of outbreak of diseases and creates a healthier environment.

4. Initial Cost: The cost of producing wind energy has come down steadily over the last few years. The main cost is the installation of wind turbines. Moreover the land used to install wind turbines can also be used for agriculture purposes. Also, when combine with solar power, it provides cheap, reliable, steady and great source of energy for the for developed and developing countries. Wind turbines can be built either on land or at large bodies of water like oceans and lakes.

5. Extra Savings For Land Owners: Land owners can look for additional cash by installing wind turbines on land that can even be used for agricultural purposes. The electricity generated by wind power can be used for your own purpose which will reduce your monthly electricity bill and the surplus power can be sent back to the local grid which will result in more savings. Moreover, you can check if your state government offers interest free loans or incentives on installation of wind turbines that will reduce the extra burden of initial investment on you.

6. Job Creation: Wind energy on the other hand has created many jobs for the local people. From installation of wind turbines to maintenance of the area where turbines are located, it has created wide range of opportunities for the people. Since most of the wind turbines are based in coastal and hilly areas, people living there are often seen in maintenance of wind turbines.

7. Modern Technology: Today’s wind turbines are classy, attractive and modern looking. They don’t look like old plain clunky windmills that become an eyesore on your land. Wind turbines are available in various sizes and vast range of people can use it for their own use or sell power to local grid to reap some profits.

Wind energy has seen huge potential in the last few years. There is no doubt that more investment will be made in this renewable source of energy in the years to come to fulfill the ever increasing demand for the electricity. Efforts are in progress to make wind energy cheaper and viable alternative for individuals and businesses. Although wind power has some great advantages that makes it attractive source of energy, it also suffers from few  disadvantages too which makes it not suitable for some locations.

Source: conserve-energy-future.com