Wind energy works by harnessing the kinetic energy present in the wind and converting it into electricity using wind turbines. When wind flows across the blades of a wind turbine, it creates a difference in air pressure between the two sides of the blade. This difference in pressure generates lift and drag forces, causing the rotor to spin. The rotor is connected to a generator, either directly or through a system of gears, which converts the rotational motion into electricity [1].
There are two primary types of wind turbines: horizontal-axis turbines (HAWTs) and vertical-axis turbines (VAWTs). HAWTs are the most common type and have three blades that rotate on a horizontal axis, facing into the wind. VAWTs, on the other hand, have shorter, wider blades and can capture wind from any direction without the need for alignment [1].
Wind power plants consist of multiple wind turbines located in the same area. Each turbine generates electricity, which is then sent to a substation. The substation steps up the voltage using transformers and connects the wind power plant to the electrical grid. From the grid, the electricity is distributed to power homes and communities [2].
The size of wind turbines can vary. Small-scale turbines can produce around 100 kilowatts of power, enough to support a home or a water pumping station. Larger turbines, often found on towers up to 80 meters tall, can generate 1.8 megawatts of power. There are even larger turbines with towers reaching 240 meters and rotor blades over 162 meters long, capable of generating 4.8 to 9.5 megawatts of power [3].
Wind farms are installations where multiple wind turbines are grouped together, often in windy locations such as mountaintops or coastal areas. These farms can generate a significant amount of electricity, enough to power thousands of homes. In the United States alone, there are approximately 57,000 wind turbines onshore and offshore [3].
The generated electricity from wind turbines can be used immediately, connected to the electrical grid, or stored for later use. Efforts are being made to develop and improve energy storage technologies such as batteries and pumped-storage hydropower, allowing excess wind energy to be stored and utilized when needed [3].
Overall, wind energy offers a renewable and sustainable source of electricity by harnessing the power of the wind and converting it into usable energy through wind turbines.