Electrical power - Research Paper Example

Amongst all alternate power sources, solar power is ‘probably’ regarded as the most recognized of all sources of alternate energy, but since it isn’t the only source of renewable power, this research examines wind power as an alternate energy source. Wind energy is a much ‘greener’ or ‘cleaner’ type of generated power supply which emits no water or air pollution compared to fossil fuel energy and proves to carry fewer maintenance costs after a wind turbine has been erected compared to traditional energy sources.

At first glance, a wind turbine resembles a giant mechanical fan, but indeed this piece of mechanical innovation has been around for many years and hopefully will be around for many more as it is used to produce an environmentally friendly form of green energy known as wind power. The process of extracting this kind of energy from the wind occurs when the wind turbines convert the kinetic energy from the wind into mechanical energy (which occurs when the blades of the wind turbine spin and turn the generator) which is then converted into electricity.

Composed of a blade and an enclosed structure called a nacelle which contains a drive train, wind turbines are often observed in multiples covering several square kilometres known as wind farms, these turbines are mounted on bases between 80-100 meters high with offshore turbines being higher. (Right, Anton) Ideally the most sensible place for a wind turbine is as the name suggests, somewhere that is constantly windy, but also free from turbulences. Reviewed literature expressed that the blades of the wind turbines start spinning when the wind speed picks up between 7.5-9.5 miles per hour up until its strongest point between 50-55 miles per hour.

Wind turbines are optimized for performance as they are controlled by a computer motor which ensures they are always facing the wind. Typically, wind turbines are of two particular make