wind power
Your Questions About Wind Turbine Jobs
Mary asks…
what is the better career computer business or wind technology?
i have always liked to work with computers but not alot of jobs where i live. I could go work on the wind turbines i would have to move but not far im just not sure wich one is better right now.
admin answers:
My wife during the last couple of weeks found herself without a job so she used the opportunity to hunt for a change of career. She was really stuck until she unearthed the resource in the box below which gives tips and tricks on how to choose a career. Now she is aware of where she’s going, and more importantly how to arrive.
Susan asks…
do you need a license to work in a wind power facility in Alberta?
I know you need a power engineer license to work in power plants, because the complex and high pressure and temperature process. But for wind turbines the process is completely different. It still requires to have a power engineer license to work in a wind power site?
admin answers:
Possibly the law requires a license for the man in charge, but likely the other employees do not need a license, but a person with a license (or other credentials) would be given preference for a job opening, all else equal. Neil
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Your Questions About Wind Turbine Generators For Home Use
Sandy asks…
Make electricity with steam at home?
This is probably a silly idea but I really like the idea of making my own electricity. I’ve thought about solar and wind but neither would really work for me. My wife & I will be building a new home in 9-10 years and I have a new idea…. We want to have one of those outdoor wood burning furnaces to heat the house. Is there such a thing as a small steam powered electric generator? If there is, maybe I could use some of the heat generated in the furnace to boil water, make steam and turn a small turbine to generate electricity. This way, I could heat my home in the winter and make my own electricity all year long just with wood. Just an idea (maybe a stupid one). If anyone has any info on this subject please share it with me. Thanx.
admin answers:
The killer here is efficiency. The efficiency of a steam turbine is only on the order of 30%. The equipment is pretty expensive too unless you go with some kind of home brew set up which can be dangerous. You would need to burn a lot of wood to make any serious amount of power. It would probably be cheaper to buy from the grid.
Chris asks…
How can I start a wind turbine Business and where is a good place to look for grants?
admin answers:
The energy efficiency sector will skyrocket the next few years, so good choice with that!
Wind farms are starting to pick up attention from the general populace due to the dwindling supplies of fossil fuels and their rising prices, which in turn contribute to the rising power expenses. The use of fossil fuels to generate electrical power is also unfriendly to the environment because of the pollutant nature of fossil fuels.
There are two reasons that people may want to invest in wind power. First, to save up on power expenses by relying fully or partially on wind turbines to derive electricity; Second, to become more environment friendly. No matter what the reasons may be, you can take advantage by setting up a wind power business.
A Good Location for Wind Farm Business
The first thing that you have to ask yourself when planning to engage in a wind power business is, Do I have the right place to harness the power of the wind? Household wind power systems do not need to worry about this since their power requirements are minimal, but to be able to feed houses you would need to produce a lot of electricity. The best place for this is a location where there is plenty of breeze to turn your windmills, like near the shorelines as well as high places.
You Need Windmills
Windmills or wind turbines are the driving force behind wind power systems. It is through these turbines that the wind is used to harness electricity by using the kinetic energy generated by their turning motion. The motion is initiated when wind is blowing the turbine panels. No matter if the wind blowing is a breeze or a gale, the motion will continue to harness kinetic energy and convert it into electrical energy.
Wind turbines used in a wind farm can either be commercially made or made at your own home. Buying commercially means you can get high-quality turbines, but would cost a lot to buy and install. Using home-made turbines, on the other hand, would require a bit of work by hand but are cheaper. Materials for home-made turbines can cost you only by the hundreds, while commercially made windmills may cost you thousands to acquire.
Power Lines
If you plan to invest on a wind power business, you would need to be like the big-time power distributors and install power lines from your windmills or power source to your clients. Fortunately, power distributors nowadays also buy power from independent power distributors whether they are using natural power sources or fuel fossils. As a windmill power generator, you are in line to become one of the power distributors feeding power to the local power company.
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Your Questions About Wind Turbine Generators
Mandy asks…
Can solar panel and wind turbine generator system run continuously for 6 month or longer?
I am planning on building a solar panel and a wind turbine that run in one generator. I just want to know if the generator can run for 6 month straight or longer? Anyone with some advices I would appreciated.
admin answers:
Well unless you have daylight and wind continuously for 6 months the answer is no.
Ruth asks…
How to build up a small wind power generator for home?
Hi all,
I want to build u an average sized wind turbine generator (about 1 Meter each Wing Size). so that i can get electricity for my home based appliances such as TV, AC, Refrigerators, etc.
What would be the requirements.. so i need to take any statutory approvals / license to do so,, and how to give input to my main Line into the home.
thanks to all in advance
admin answers:
First thing: Is this going to be a temporary source (in case of a power cut) or a more permanent source.
Because it will be an extension to your house, you might need planning permission. You have a certain ‘amount’ you can build on without permission, so if you haven’t used it, nor has a previous owner, than you can build it with permission. You can check this by going to your council.
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Your Questions About Wind Generators For Boats
Nancy asks…
Can someone please tell me the advantages and disatvantages of wind and tidal generators?
plz help!
if u can also explain how a generator works?
admin answers:
We’ve used the wind as an energy source for a long time. The Babylonians and Chinese were using wind power to pump water for irrigating crops 4,000 years ago, and sailing boats were around long before that.
Wind power was used in the Middle Ages, in Europe, to grind corn, which is where the term “windmill” comes from.
Windmills
How it works
The Sun heats our atmosphere unevenly, so some patches become warmer than others.
These warm patches of air rise, other air blows in to replace them – and we feel a wind blowing.
We can use the energy in the wind by building a tall tower, with a large propellor on the top.
A wind generator
The wind blows the propellor round, which turns a generator to produce electricity.
We tend to build many of these towers together, to make a “wind farm” and produce more electricity.
The more towers, the more wind, and the larger the propellors, the more electricity we can make.
It’s only worth building wind farms in places that have strong, steady winds, although boats and caravans increasingly have small wind generators to help keep their batteries charged.
Try
home.clara.net/darvill/altenerg/wind.htm
jj
Mark asks…
How is living on yacht compared to a townhouse/condo?
Has anyone lived on a 40 foot +/- yacht? I see them outside my office window all day and it seems like a relaxing life. Are they really too small to live(single) comfortably and how fast do they depreciate? A quick seach revealed that a 40 footer cost more or less the same as a condo or small house, but what are the upsides of living on a boat(other than being mobile)?
admin answers:
It is a very relaxing life, and you can live quite comfortably on a sailboat, depending on what your expectations and needs are. You should be able to buy a 40 footer for much less than a condo would cost in most places, by the way.
Here is an answer I gave yesterday to someone who asked a similar question. I hope it helps.
Living on a boat is not for everyone. It is a lifestyle that can be great fun and very relaxed, but you have to work a little harder to be comfortable. Can you try it for a little while without having to make a committment?
You have to make arrangements for water and to have your holding tank pumped out. Most people go ashore for water – sometimes to a marina dock. In a very few places there is water delivery to boats, but in my experience that is not the norm. I have never seen that happen. When we anchored for longer periods my husband and I often dinghied 5 gallon jugs of water back to our boat on a regular basis – every time we went ashore.
What about power? Do you want to have electricity? If so, you need to think about wind generators or solar panels, depending on where you live. How about refrigeration? That is the biggest consumer of energy on a boat. There are options that use less power, but they tend to be more expensive. Do you want to be able to have a hot water shower on the boat? Is it hot enough where you live to use a solar bag/sun shower to heat your shower water each day or will you need a water heater?
How about cooking? If you have a propane stove, especially a Force 10, two burner with oven, that will be great, and many people also have a BBQ in the cockpit. With propane you should have a propane detector in your cabin and bilge as propane sinks if it is leaking, and could collect in the bottom of your boat and cause an explosion.
If you anchor, you have to dinghy ashore everyday. You may need to lock your dinghy when you go ashore, depending on where you are anchored. Will you have a vehicle on shore? If so, that will make life easier, as you will not have to backpack laundry, groceries, etc. If you are depending on getting ashore by dinghy to get to a job, what about the days when it might be too rough to get the dinghy ashore?
Do you want to have TV and Internet on your boat? We used a cell phone to have Internet access when we were anchored. Sometimes we were fortunate enough to be able to receive an unsecured wireless signal. For TV, you might be able to receive the free channels from you boat if you put an antenna high enough. The reception will of course vary with the movement of the boat.
Depending on your location, you may need to protect all you clothing from humidity and mildew. We rolled all of ours and packaged everything in airtight ziploc bags to keep the moisture out.
Some people who live on boats choose to rent a slip at a marina and then they can have most of the conveniences of a land based home while living on a boat. Not all marinas allow live aboards.
I would live on a boat again in a flash if the opportunity presented itself with the right person. My husband and I enjoyed it immensely and had wonderful adventures. We were happy vagabonds. We were both retired though, so we did not have to worry about getting ashore for work, etc.
So I hope I have given you some food for thought. Most people I know who live on boats and work ashore actually live in a slip at a marina, but I also know a few who anchor and dinghy ashore everyday to a job. Best of luck with you plans. I would do it. Feel free to ask about anything else you think I could help with.
Best of luck.
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Your Questions About Wind Turbine Generators For Home Use
Michael asks…
What would give me more power for a cheap home brew wind power system?
Should I build a Vertical Axis or Horizontal Axis Wind Turbine for this? We get a decent amount of wind every year (12 MPH in winter and 8 MPH in summer), the turbine would be no higher than 20 feet. So should i make a VAWT or HAWT? If you say VAWT don’t say ‘because it’s easier’ because I need to get as much power as I can outta this.
admin answers:
The easiest system to build is the vertical type which from the top side looks much like the sign for the astrological gemini ..the capture side is presented to the wind constantly on a simple outer bearing and race..it takes thrust and is called a TDO (tapered double outer) race bearing …the inside presses against a lower TDO and an upper singe cup like your wheel bearing in your car. Vertical units have a better approach height from the wind..take up less space and are not as testy when it comes to turbulence…In 1998 i built a small model based on a design i got from a friend that uses lightweight sheet metal ..We only had a few problems and that was in the collector ring..
Now for the horizontal…it takes up a lot of space..20′ x 10′ footprint..its got no way of responding to the change of wind direction..Unless you build the feeder horn type which captures and diverts the air downward onto primary compression blades…In this case you built a vertical mill and just improperly named it…turbulence from the ground and safety issues ( neighbors dog jumps in) all have an added problem..there are some very odd calculations for the turbine collector and the way the blades a shaped and how captured air is exhausted no to cause a back pressure. Here’s what i found out..Height is 3 times width. Of turbine tube… If the internal fan is 3 feet height is min of 9 feet..12feet is great 15 feet is best. If your going to build this thing from scratch remember to use a massive shaft (hollow) .My favorite is schedule 10 steel 4″ .. Bearings are expensive. Grease is cheaper ..the fan is in a spiral along the shaft the pitch is about 1 turn in twenty
feet. Your selection of generators needs to be a higher value 8% than your actual design load. The transmission if used on a 90deg box should use lightest oil. Every time you add a piece to the drive train you loose power…to best regulate the high speed use a flywheel ..I made one from from a 1″ thick 18″ diameter steel plate it will provide carry over by inertia short cycle and if you want you can attach your MAGNETIC induction tachometer to it…gosh there are so many things in favor of a vertical mill in most applications ..I think its the only way to go…But i am going to guarantee any of these are not tweak free.. No matter the skill or the budget ..Your in a very grey area…With the wind info you sent an 85% eff (during operation) will produce about 2400 watts of power at 120volts parasitic losses can account for 10% mechanical loss for 5 %..In a start up mode expect that it will take 3-5 months to get the mechanics correct. And for the electrics just follow NEC and other codes ..Please find a good slip ring collector. I salvaged the shaft form a broken gasoline welder for mine (250 amp)…all in all its sound like fun wish you were down the street…this was probably more than you wanted for an answer but I just couldn’t resist..Have fun From the E
Robert asks…
How does wind energy cause change?
My daughter is working on a project based on wind energy, and she needs to answer this question. So far, all we’ve found on Google is that it causes the climate and local temperature to change. Does anyone have anything additional?
admin answers:
Hi Liliveth, consider these changes: if you invest properly in wind power today and take advantage of any grants and tax incentives, even if your electric rates do not go up as they are forecast too, you will get your money back over time, well within the lifetime of the equipment, and sooner if there is a rate increase in the future. There are also enviromental benefits. At one time there was an argument that a wind turbine will never produce as much power as was used to manufacture it. First of all, this is not correct. The, “Embodied Energy,” in a turbine is earned back in 2 – 6 years, depending on the type turbine, where the raw materials were shipped from, and how it was installed and used in the end. But the argument is not important anyway. We have been living with electricity for over a century now, so it isn’t going away anytime soon. The question is, “What is the best way to produce it?” If you build a turbine, and put it along side a similar sized natural gas fired turbine generator for example, which earns back its embodied energy sooner? The answer is the gas turbine never does, because once you build it, ship it and install it, you now have to feed it natural gas for the rest of its life, so it keeps on digging itself a deeper and deeper embodied energy hole that it can never crawl out of. At least the turbine has a chance to get even environmentally. So manufacturing and using them in the end releases less pollution into our environment. There are other environmental benefits as well, most of these are pretty obvious.
There are also mechanical and political benefits. We all know after the oil embargo of 1973, and the gulf war what it means for our country to rely on foreign oil. Wouldn’t it be nice if we only shipped in 20% of our energy instead of 60% the next time something like that happens? Our home has been powered by the wind and sun for years now, but we still remain connected to the electric grid. Last year alone there were two power failures in our county that lasted about a half day each. In both cases, we were not aware of them because our solar array and wind turbine kept on feeding the house. It’s difficult to put a price tag on something like that. Did you know that there are over 100,000 homes and businesses in the United States alone that use some level of solar and wind power to operate their electrical devices, that’s good news.
Beyond the mechanical, political and environmental benefits however, lies a less obvious benefit, the social benefit. Right now we pump oil out of the ground, and mine for coal. The process of getting those materials to market involves shipping, military escorts and other activities that use up a good portion of that energy as well as putting lives at risk. Jobs in wind power are higher tech than jobs in coal mining, oil drilling and shipping, and there are more of them. Using more solar and wind power would require us to put more people to work, and increase our education base because the work involved requires certain skills. I would personally like to take all those people out of the coal mines, send them to school and put them to work building solar panels and wind turbines. Nobody would have to die again in one of those dark holes in the ground trying to find food for our hungry power plants. They could work on a factory floor where they would not be exposed to coal dust, radon and other toxins and dangers. Most of our solar and wind resources are spread pretty evenly over the middle half of our globe, so everyone has access. This puts people in Bogota on a more equal footing with people in Boca Raton by giving them access to electricity, heat and clean water, and the education to use the resources that provide those things. Oil, coal and natural gas is generally piled up in a few places, such as Russia and the Middle East. This gives those countries and the richer governments that rule them more horse power in bargaining for the other resources of our planet. These are the things that wars are made of.
There are other reasons, but I think you get the picture. For us, renewable energy has become something of a hobby It will probably never save us any real money, utility power in most places is really very inexpensive, but it’s a little like growing your own tomatoes. It’s usually cheaper to buy them at the grocery, but lots of people go to the work and expense to maintain a garden instead. We just grow electrons in ours. If you really want to learn more about the subject, there are some great sources to look into, I will list some below. Here are a couple of quotes you might be interested in: “The path we take today could ease anothers journey tomorrow” Rajendra Pachauri. “The problems facing humanity cannot be solved with the same level of conciousness that created them.” Albert Einstein. Take care Liliveth, Rudydoo
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Your Questions About Wind Turbine Generators Types
Paul asks…
How does a wind turbine generate electricity?
im making a diagram upon how wind turbines generate electricty
so please help me to like create. i know the wind turns the blades which creates electricity via the generatore. but how does it occur.
what type of energy is used. EG kinetic, thermal?
/thank you xxx
admin answers:
A wind turbine is a rotary device that extracts energy from the wind. If the mechanical energy is used directly by machinery, such as for pumping water, cutting lumber or grinding stones, the machine is called a windmill. If the mechanical energy is instead converted to electricity, the machine is called a wind generator, wind turbine, wind turbine generator (WTG), wind power unit (WPU), wind energy converter (WEC), or aerogenerator.
References :
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wind_turbine
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Airborne_wind_turbine
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maglev_wind_turbine
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wind_power
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windpump
Ruth asks…
What can you tell me about wind turbines that move vertically or in a helix shape?
Our town is considering purchasing several of these types of wind turbines. I am on the youth advisory board and we think it will save us time and money as well as a cleaner, more efficient source of energy. Links, videos, and any other information is greatly appreciated as well as your general imput. Thanks!
Overall, do you think this would be an investment or a waste of money. (We would receive grants, fund raise, etc…)
admin answers:
Kinda depends…. Are you getting a contractor to show-up and install it, or is the project being done by locals? That is who is responsible for design, fabrication, installation?
If this is to produce electricity, are the generators a direct to grid design or will there be inverters?
Send me individual email, I’ll discuss this with you, if you are interested…
Given “grant $” this could be a win-win, HOWEVER, has anyone checked on the MTBF figures for the sort of wind plant that you intend to install? There are things that could make this a GREAT investment and there are factors that could end up costing your town a LOT of $ for no benefit at all.
I have no idea, how much or what sort of research has already been done. …. What?
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Your Questions About Wind Generators
Sandy asks…
How do I build a homemade wind generator?
Wondered if anyone knew how to build a simple homemade wind generator to power our home? A homemade wind generator that is not too complicated would be good. Do you know how to build a wind generator? Please help us.Thanks
admin answers:
The first thing you need to do is figure out how big of a wind generator you need. Most wind generators that are over 1000 watts in generating power are quite a bit more difficult to build. You will need to have your wind generator 15 feet above any obstruction within 300 feet. That is a must.
Some great resources exist but probably reading an article or two about building wind generators would help a lot. Try the resource I listed for a very informative article, there is mention of a website in the article where you can find some great wind generator plans too. Hope this helps, we have built 3 wind generators so far with these plans.
Mandy asks…
What are the purpose of the magnets in a wind generator?
In a wind generator there are several trapezoid magnets around the shaft of the prop, what are the purpose of these?
admin answers:
Electricity can be generated by moving a conducting wire so that it cuts through a magnetic field.
In short electricity from magnetism and motion.
Most electricity-generating systems involve rotating coils of wire in a magnetic field.
There are many ways of causing the coils to rotate:
Wind power:- wind generators
Water power:- water hitting a water wheel (turbine) causing it to rotate – hydroelectricity
Nuclear power:- heat generated in a nuclear reaction is used to produce a jet of steam which again hit a turbine causing it to rotate.
Oil, gas and coal could be used as alternatives to produce the jet of steam.
Finally rather than the coils of wire rotating some systems cause the magnets to rotate – as long as there is relative motion between the coils and the magnetic field either will do.
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Wind Power
Wind Power is an interesting concept and design that converts energy from the wind to a more useful form of energy. The use of wind power has roots in the ancient European flour mills and the American water pumps. Wind turbines are the most commonly used tool of conversion and the wind power is most usably converted to electricity.
Dating back to as early as the first century AD, man has been using wind power to generate energy. European flour mills utilized the efforts of windmills, as did the American farming and ranching industries.
Large wind farms help to convert large amounts of wind power into usable energy to help power local areas. Some countries have found ways to utilize this excellent energy source to benefit their growing populations. Today, Denmark uses wind power to accommodate approximately one fifth of its total electricity production. Across the world, wind power generation is increasing exponentially and is beginning to be seen as a great renewable energy resource.
Wind power is environmentally friendly, world-wide, and highly renewable. As far as renewable resources, greenhouse gases, and environmental hazards are concerned, wind power is an excellent alternative to fossil fuel derived electricity. However, wind power does begin to come under fire when the topic is the location of the large and sometimes unsightly wind turbines. Situated in the best wind sites, these modern looking structures tend to devalue the scenery and natural landscape.
Today, there are thousands of modern wind turbines in production all over the world, and as of 2004, wind power was the fasting growing energy resource. With the global community focusing on more environmentally friendly energy options, the use of wind power is becoming more and more prevalent. Although the United States is not the highest converter or user of wind energy, it is adding more of this renewable energy to its power grid than any other nation in the world.
Apart from the international community and large scale use of wind power, more individuals are beginning to see and seek the benefits of small wind generation systems to power their homes and small businesses. On such small scales, wind power is highly cost efficient and clean.
Although wind power has a lot of potential, the logistics of its use are debatable. Wind farms tend to develop at sites in remote locations, which significantly increase the cost of production due to transport costs, and no one can fully be sure of the direct or indirect environmental damage of the proliferation of wind power. Despite the theoretical consequences, wind power conversion is on the rise and will be for years to come.
Wind Power Residential
With the rise of awareness and use of wind power, residential areas are beginning to see more wind turbines. The rising cost of energy and the increased environmental awareness around the world is paving the way for the use of wind power residentially. Today, nations are developing aggressive energy policies that better utilize wind energy, and local economies are seeing the benefits of small scale employment of wind power.
Many companies and factories sell wind power residential kits that are easy to use and understand. Although these kits can cost well into the thousands of dollars, builders can significantly save if they buy the wind power residential kits directly from the factory and assemble them themselves.
By using wind power, residential owners can expect to reduce their utility bills between fifty and ninety percent. In cases where the wind turbines are situated in ideal locations, homeowners can even turn a profit on the energy generation. The concept is easy. When the energy generated is more than the energy used, local utility companies automatically purchase the excess energy. Over a long period time, wind power residential use may be significantly less than the wind power generated causing quite a significant profit for the owner.
Basically, a wind power residential kit is installed (either by the company or the owner), and a wind turbine is situated on top of a tall structure (most likely a tower). The tower collects energy from the wind and converts it into a useable energy source that is compatible with the home system. In typical cases, residences are powered by a combination of wind energy and purchased electricity from a local utility company. As long as the wind speeds are conducive to electricity generation, the residence remains powered by the wind power residential kit. When the wind speeds decline and electricity is not produced, the residence is powered by purchased energy. For residences in particularly windy areas, energy production may be significantly higher than the energy produced in less windy regions.
Homeowners interested in purchasing wind power residential kits should consult their local authorities for local regulations and information about wind power generation in the particular area. Builders should also consult the US Department of Energy for efficiency estimates and information about the size of wind turbines that would be necessary for the area.
In the end, many homeowners have found the economical benefits of wind energy production to be profitable. With the rising cost of energy and transportation, the idea of this investment can be both profitable and practical for homeowners with enough time, patience, and knowledge to make it happen.
Wind Power Plant
With the rising use of wind energy, we are beginning to see the rise of the wind power plant. A wind power plant, or a wind farm, is a cluster of wind turbines used to generate electricity over a large area. Wind energy generation is growing increasingly important as public awareness of environmental issues grows and panic regarding the depletion of fossil fuels increases. Nonetheless, both the conventional power plant industry and the wind power plant industry are important for the current and foreseeable supply of energy.
While most electric and power plants are owned by utility companies, a typical wind power plant is owned by individuals and small businesses. These small owners generate electricity with the intent to sell to utility companies. These independent power producers can generate a hefty profit if their wind power plant is in a desired location. Typically, a wind power plant generates enough energy to sustain its existence. However, wind turbines in prime locations usually generate a surplus of wind energy. Prime locations are areas where the wind speed is greatest and generally unobstructed, such as mountainsides, open fields, and ocean areas.
The growing public awareness and concern for the environment has caused a huge market for environmentally friendly goods and services. This, in conjunction with the widespread panic regarding fossil fuels and the cost of fossil fuel derived energy, has enabled the proliferation of the wind energy market. Wind power plants are offering the public a green energy alternative at an extremely reasonable rate. People will find wind energy especially enticing when they look into the benefits of small scale energy generation.
Apart from wind power plants, small scale energy generators can be incredibly cost efficient and are a great way to keep utility bills low and generate a small profit. Owners of small scale wind energy generators can enjoy typical savings between fifty and ninety percent on their utility bills. As with large scale wind power plants, the excess energy generated is automatically purchased by local utility companies.
Wind energy generation is a zero emissions energy source. The environmentally friendly and economical energy alternative is a great way to bridge the supply and demand gap in the current energy market. Theoretically, the United States can generate enough energy from wind to fulfill all of the nations energy needs. As the wind energy market grows and develops, it is expected that the public will learn the benefits of the alternative energy and will employ it at home. It is not unexpected to see a sharp increase in the small scale wind energy development, as well as the obvious increase in the wind power plant industry.
Wind Power Homemade
The rising cost of energy and increased awareness of environmental issues has led many nations and businesses to search for alternative energy sources. On a smaller scale, residences and small businesses understand the many benefits of wind energy and are searching for ways to enjoy the cost-efficient energy source. For homeowners interested in wind power, homemade wind power kits are readily available. These wind power homemade kits can be surprisingly simple and affordable for those with a little patience and knowledge.
Many states have seen utility deregulation legislation over the past several years. While the benefits may have been plentiful at the time, the economic impact is beginning to hit the pockets of individuals and small businesses. The supply and demand for energy in the United States is alarmingly disproportionate, and is contributing to the escalating prices. The electric industry cannot keep pace with the demand, and many are turning to alternative energy sources to help alleviate the financial impact of the skewed system. In fact, the Department of Energy has continuously announced that the United States has the fastest growing wind power market in the entire world.
Wind power, homemade, may be the best answer to the growing energy crisis. Many companies and factories offer wind power homemade kits for small scale use. Typically, these kits can cost several thousand dollars in the initial investment. However, builders can save a bundle by purchasing the wind power homemade kits directly from the factory. The assembly can be simple and many individuals and venues offer a plethora of help options. Wind energy workshops, websites, and books are proliferating and readily accessible to interested buyers.
Although the initial investment may seem steep, owners can begin to see the economical benefits immediately. It is not uncommon for owners of wind power homemade turbines to receive significantly lower utility bills. Typically, wind power usage in conjunction with purchased power from local utility companies can lower bills by fifty to ninety percent. If the wind power homemade kits are positioned in prime locations, such as open fields or Oceanside, the wind energy can actually generate a profit for owners.
Wind energy is converted to electricity by wind turbines. When winds are high, energy is generated and stored. When energy is low, purchased energy is used. If the energy production is more than the energy used, the utility company will automatically purchase the excess energy, putting money directly in the pocket of the builder.
The rising cost of energy has everyone searching for a clean alternative energy source. Wind power is both an economical and practical option. Although the investment is a bit pricey for individuals, the benefits are quick and profitable.
Your Questions About Wind Turbine Generators Australia
Robert asks…
Should Australia increase the use of turbines to generate power rather than relying on fossil fuels?
I would like also like to know if it is possible to run the whole of Australia, or South Australia let alone, only on wind energy, provided that Australia has enough material, money, land and turbines?
admin answers:
We already get our power from turbines, being steam, water and gas turbines. You mean wind turbines I guess. The southern coastline (Great Australian Bight) is a good wind zone I understand, so lets say it will produce 25% of the capacity of the wind turbines over a year. The UK achieves about 23% it is claimed.
Very large turbines are rated at say 5MW and might produce around 1.25MW on average.The size is 65m (each blade) and spaced 5-15 diameters apart, especially considering the row behind receiving the wake. This depends a lot on the land itself, but would look like 120m x 15 = 1.8km spacing which may be best for cost recovery with these very big generators. If the Nullarbor plain is taken as 1000km that only allows a row of 500 along the coast at most, with an average production like 625MW for the whole row. There can be multiple rows, but I have no idea how many are feasible. This whole row is similar to a single large coal fired steam turbine generator (600MW) A steam power station may have several of these. However there are other significant infrastructure issues, like the concrete used amounting to 1300m^3 each, the roads and the electrical distribution needed to cover long distances, how to replace or recycle all this. There is a strong likelihood that the grid needs an on line standby system of the same capacity, as well as a great increase in its carrying capacity in certain areas. This standby can be hydro (there isn’t anything like enough), though pumped storage could be built on some mountains far away (no mountains on the Nullarbor) or a bank of large gas turbines on line using methane or kerosene etc. Steam (coal fired boilers) generally cannot respond to sudden large changes in load if the wind drops.
The Australian production in 2009 was 261 million megawatt hours (second link). One row of generators as above would be around 5.5 million MWh a year, so it needs about 50 rows, stretching 100km inland. I am not sure the wind holds up that far even without 50 generators in the wake of each other.
This is a very rough estimate, but it seems to me it is not a very practical thing at all. Think of wind power as a fuel saver, something that is only useful in specialised areas like the southern coast line. In the tropics with cyclones and little winds otherwise to deal with, forget it, with any current technology. Normal winds are “very moderate”, while cyclones are up to several times the maximum rated speeds, and above the survival speeds. There are certain carefully chosen spots that do have wind generators in the tropics though I suspect these are more about political will than hard economic reality.
In the US estimates are that 20% of energy needs can be met by wind power. Australia could well be less than that. It may be one of the more expensive forms of providing energy, and not so clearly saving anything at all when all things are considered. The first link doesn’t have a positive view on these developments in Wales (UK), where politicians legislated that wind is the in thing. Politicians have law and art degrees. No surprise they make bad decisions about engineering, as they cannot tell who is stringing them along.
The second link might have other info of interest about load variation (change in demand) and aluminium smelters and refineries, and little known facts about the grid which appears to go to about Ceduna at the moment, so only the eastern part of SA is on the grid. WA has its own isolated grids.
The coal stations produce 78% of electricity and 200Mt (megaton) of CO2 a year of the estimated 30-35,000Mt of additional man-made CO2 a year in the world (according to the climate people). Where is the problem, one would ask. We export about 9% of this electricity as refined metals, with stuff like aluminium., and about 3 times as much coal as we use, also used for overseas electrical production in various countries that would be in a difficult position without it.
At present a mix of various energy types seems the best approach, with different situations in different locations. The best argument in favour of alternate energy is sustainability in the long term, but it seems that it will be very expensive compared to coal, close to Australia’s biggest asset. Should we just throw that away? Incidentally the alternative energy to suit Australia might be solar thermal.
Ruth asks…
Can a convection current turn a power turbine?
I’m curious whether a convection current, like heating through a tube, would be strong enough to turn a turbine that would be able to produce power? (In case you’re wondering, yes I do have an idea in mind, but I don’t know if it’s practicle yet.)
How much of a thermal raise do you think would be needed, and how much of a tube for, let’s say a 1kw generator?
admin answers:
Like the others say, it’s possible.
In June 2006, an agreement was reached to develop a 50MW solar tower generator, in which the sun heats air, which drives a turbine in a chimney, in New South Wales in Australia. The idea is not based on radically new technology. Chimneys with ‘smokejacks’ in which a fan in the hot air turned a roasting spit were certainly in use in the UK in the eighteenth century and probably before. It is well known that a tall chimney produces a better draught, presumably because there is a greater temperature difference between bottom and top, wind speeds are greater higher up, inducing more air to be drawn out of the top of the chimney by Bernoulli effects, and a long distance up the chimney should help hot air build up speed and kinetic energy.
But modelling all these effects and producing an optimally efficient design seems to be almost impossible, at least we have so far been unable to find anyone to take the task on.
If you are using a fluid medium, it could be more possible to make. Implied in your question though, is that we are looking at a vertical model for the turbine since you want to draw on the heat differential between a cold medium and a hot one.
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Wind Power Generators
The rising costs of energy production and the increased public awareness of environmental issues is leaving a wide gap in the alternative energy industry. Over the last decade, the demand for alternative and clean energy sources has paved the way for the steady development of wind energy. Today, nations have developed wind energy policies that greatly utilize wind power generators. Local energy suppliers and even small businesses and residences are also able to benefit from wind power generators.
The cost of energy production and transport is on a steady rise. Nations and localities are beginning to discover just how economical it is to supplement their energy resources by using large scale wind power generators and wind farms. Worldwide, wind power generators have proliferated more than five times over the last seven years. Global demand for cost-efficient productions has significantly contributed to this increase. Also contributing is the growing awareness of environmental issues. It is widely held that wind energy is considerably cleaner than other fossil fuel derived energy sources. Thus, the use of wind power generators is extremely practical.
Residences and small businesses are also seeing the benefits of wind energy. The installation of wind power generators are significantly reducing energy bills, while allowing individuals to contribute to environmental friendly efforts. Wind power generators can also directly put money into the pockets of the generator owners. Some states have enacted energy policies that mandate local energy companies to buy excess energy generated from local wind power generators. Thus, when a homeowner or small business produces more energy than it uses, the excess can be sold for profit.
Many companies sell wind power generators and DIY kits. Most conveniently, workshops, websites, books, and lectures are available for people interested in building their own wind power generators. With a little time, patience, and knowledge, builders can convert energy for personal use.
Wind energy is converted into a useable energy source (usually electricity) by the technology of wind power generators. The productivity of these wind power generators are highly dependent on positioning and wind speed. Generators positioned in the less obstructed areas with greater wind speeds produce more efficiently than others. However, the cost-efficiency of wind energy conversion can be severely diminished if the production of the energy is too distant from the demand center. Thus, wind power generators are most profitable at the local level with low transportation costs.
Thanks to environmental awareness and a high demand for cost-efficient energy production, the use of wind power generators are steadily proliferating and will be for years to come. As nations develop energy plans to accommodate for greater use of wind energy, and local markets continue to push for greater dependency on alternative energy sources, wind power generators are filling a gap in the alternative energy market.
Wind Power Generator
Wind power usage is seeing exponential growth over the past ten years. With some countries dedicating nearly a fifth of its energy consumption to wind power, wind power generators are receiving their fair share of work. Wind turbines come in all shapes, sizes, and purposes. From the sleek modern designs of wind power generators that prevail in the large scale wind farms, to the shabby windmills that dominate the Dutch countryside, wind power generators can be both complex and surprisingly simplistic.
The terms wind power generator and windmills are often confused for one another. The distinction lies in the intent of the energy usage. When wind power is used for primitive applications, such as a pump or a grind, the wind turbine is considered a windmill. If the wind power is used for the conversion to mechanical energy, such as electricity, the appropriate term is wind power generator (or wind generator).
The rising cost of energy and the increased public awareness of the environment have led many families, businesses, and nations to significantly increase the utilization of this renewable energy source. With a little bit of determination and know-how, individuals are building wind power generators to supplement their home energy supplies and greatly reduce the cost of their electricity bills. In fact, the proliferation of wind power usage has led to an increase in the sales of wind power kits and wind power construction workshops.
What exactly are wind power generators? Wind power generators are small wind turbines that are mounted approximately one hundred feet high (usually between eighty and one hundred twenty feet). Because of the required height, wind power generators tend to convert more electricity when they are placed in remote or less densely populated areas. As the wind blows, the blades of the wind power generator spin and generate electricity. This electricity can then be stored and used for local use.
Wind speed and the size of the wind power generator are both important factors when determining the amount of power that could be generated. The expected or theoretical power generation can be obtained by the wind turbine manufacturer.
Wind power generators come in a plethora of sizes and uses. Some may be as small as a fifty watt used to generate machinery (such as boats), while the largest turbines deliver up to six megawatts. With the rising cost of energy and the increasingly public awareness of environmental issues, it is not unrealistic to expect to see more wind power generators across the world. Whether they are as iconic as those in the Dutch countryside, or as useful as the modern generators in West Texas, wind power generators are on the rise.
Wind Power Generation
Wind power generation in the United States has grown by nearly 45 percent in 2007. Rising public awareness of environmental issues and the escalating costs of energy production have significantly contributed to aggressive energy policies around the world as nations clamor for policies that engage alternative energy sources. Wind power generation is a clean and cost-efficient energy source that is widely preferred over fossil fuel based energy sources. In recent years, residential use of wind power generation has exploded exponentially in attempts to save on utility bills, generate profits, and do their part to help the environment.
The concept of wind power generation is not terribly difficult to understand. Basically, wind turbines, which are strategically located, collect and convert wind energy into electricity. The wind turbines are connected to electrical grids. Individual turbines can convert energy in small localities, and large scale wind farms can convert energy into larger scale electric grids.
On a small scale, wind power generation is extremely cost efficient and can even turn a profit for owners with wind turbines in prime locations. On a larger scale, however, cost efficiency is greatest when wind power generation is used as a supplementary measure. The purchase of wind power generation kits is still highly practical for home or small business use.
Wind power generation for small localities is best employed with purchased electricity as a back-up. Wind energy is the main source of energy to power an area but is supplemented with the purchased energy when wind speed is too low to effectively produce electricity. Conversely, wind energy can be generated to excess and the excess amount of energy will automatically be bought by local utility companies. This is how wind power generation not only saves in utility bills, but puts money directly in the pockets of its owners.
Wind energy is highly renewable. The general consensus is that this form of energy is much cleaner than other alternative energy sources, especially energy sources that are fossil fuel derived. However, there is some debate concerning the placement of wind turbines and wind farms. Because the best sites for wind power generation tend to be in scenic mountain areas and coastal areas, many claim that the aesthetics of wind turbines and wind farms are unnatural and devalue the landscape.
Nonetheless, wind power generation is being steadily employed. The cost-efficiency and environmental friendly nature of the energy source are amazing advantages and should not be ignored. Although the full direct and indirect impact of wind power generation may never be known, wind energy is a practical response to todays energy problems.
Your Questions About Wind Turbine Generators Wiki
David asks…
Can I use electric fan motors as generator?
Here in the philippines air is very windy so i am planning to build a wind turbine.
admin answers:
Yes but you won’t get much current out of it. The wind turbines that you see on top of high poles are huge. They don’t look it from the ground but you could walk around inside them. Also, in order to be practical, you need to hook the generator up to a storage device (batteries) in order to store the electricity (otherwise, you’ll only get current when the wind is blowing). So, it’s not really practical but you should try just for the knowledge of it. Be careful though, you will be working with high voltage and you need to take precautions. The link below is to a wikipedia article on wind power that’s pretty good.
Http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wind_power
John asks…
How does wind energy work? I know a little, but does anyone have a clearer idea?
I’ve tried some internet sites, but none of them have given me any real idea of how it works except “It turns the blades and generates electricity”
I am really interested in Wind energy, and how it works. Anyone have a somewhat clearer explanation for me? Thanks.
admin answers:
Wind spins turbines which powers a generator. That’s the easy way to explain it. But if you want to know more in detail:
“Wind power is the conversion of wind energy into a useful form, such as electricity, using wind turbines. At the end of 2007, worldwide capacity of wind-powered generators was 94.1 gigawatts.[1] Although wind currently produces about 1% of world-wide electricity use,[2] it accounts for approximately 19% of electricity production in Denmark, 9% in Spain and Portugal, and 6% in Germany and the Republic of Ireland (2007 data). Globally, wind power generation increased more than fivefold between 2000 and 2007.[1]
Most wind power is generated in the form of electricity. Large scale wind farms are connected to electrical grids. Individual turbines can provide electricity to isolated locations. In windmills, wind energy is used directly as mechanical energy for pumping water or grinding grain.
Wind energy is plentiful, renewable, widely distributed, clean, and reduces greenhouse gas emissions when it displaces fossil-fuel-derived electricity. The intermittency of wind seldom creates problems when using wind power to supply a low proportion of total demand. Where wind is to be used for a moderate fraction of demand, additional costs for compensation of intermittency are considered to be modest.[3]”
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wind_power
Hope that helps you. 🙂
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Wind Power for Homes
The use of wind power as an alternative energy source has been steadily rising over the past five years. The year 2007 saw an exponential increase in wind energy development across the country, an increase of 45%. This figure incorporates the national energy development for large businesses but also wind power for homes and residential use. Many people are unaware of the degree of savings and profitability that are available when using wind power for homes and small businesses. Not only are the positive effects economical, but they are environmentally safe as well.
The use of wind power for homes and residences can save homeowners from fifty to ninety percent on their overall utility bills. Savings on the higher end of the spectrum are not uncommon. The initial investment can be a little pricey. The necessary kits for wind power for homes and residences can cost several thousand dollars. However, these investments are usually returned in the form of savings. Sometimes, wind power for homes and residential use can actually generate a profit. The wind turbines create and store the energy generated from the wind. If the energy stored is more than the energy needed to run the home, then the utility company will automatically purchase the excess energy. These profits are most common in areas with prime turbine placements (that is areas with unobstructed and high wind speeds).
Environmental groups are especially eager to promote the use of wind energy. It is widely considered to be a clean, safe, and highly renewable energy resource. This is even truer when comparing the environmental effects of wind energy to other fossil fuel based energy sources. Wind turbines produce no pollution, as they are a zero emissions energy source. A small residential wind turbine will offset approximately 1.2 tons of air pollutants and 200 tons of greenhouse gases, according to the American Wind Energy Association.
Wind power for homes, residences, and businesses does not come without protests. As can be expected there are some objections to this energy alternative, such as turbine placement and noise pollution. However, these objections are constantly being resolved as wind energy technology evolves and develops. Today, wind turbines are much quieter than the previous generation, and produce very little noise. The objections to the placement of the turbines will be a problem that is slightly more difficult to resolve. Since prime locations for wind energy development tend to be in the scenic areas (such as mountainsides, oceans, Oceanside, and open plains), the placement of the turbines continue to obstruct the aesthetics of the natural landscape.
Regardless of the objects and resolutions, wind energy is a clean and practical energy source. Wind power for homes and residential use is not only practical but extremely economical. With a small investment and a long term plan, wind power for homes can be profitable while allowing the homeowner an opportunity to do their part to save the environment.
Wind Power Facts
Wind power usage is on the rise as industry leaders and residential owners are discovering this cost-efficient and environmentally friendly energy alternative. In 2007 alone, the United States expanded its wind power generation by 45%. The American Wind Energy Association, along with many environmental and special interests groups, is dedicated to providing interested parties with wind power facts and information to help promote the use of wind energy.
The US wind power industry spans approximately thirty-four states and generate approximately one percent of the total national energy supply. This one percent represents nearly 4.5 million homes that are powered by wind power. As far as wind power facts and estimates for 2008, the year is expected to render a strong performance that could rival 2007. However, the proliferation of wind energy production is highly dependent on tax credits and business incentives for the wind power industry. Current incentives and estimates are scheduled to terminate at the end of the year.
Wind power facts and estimates are consistently touting the cost efficiency of wind energy as an energy alternative. Residences with wind energy conversion capabilities find significant reductions in their overall utility bills. It is not uncommon for households using a combination of wind energy and purchased energy to see a reduction of fifty to ninety percent on their electric bills. Although the initial investment in wind energy conversion may be steep, wind power facts show that the installment of wind turbines and generators will payoff and may even become profitable. Wind turbines in prime locations, receiving greater unobstructed wind speeds, can produce a surplus amount of energy which is then automatically purchased by the utility company. In this manner, wind power can be directly profitable to owners.
Wind power is globally recognized as a clean and safe energy alternative, much more so than other alternative energy supplies that are fossil fuel derived. However, wind power facts and estimates are constantly changing to accommodate for the quickly evolving wind power technology. What were once considered environmental problems, are being solved and altered in the most unobtrusive ways. For example, it was once true that wind turbines and wind energy generation was quite noisy. Todays wind turbines that incorporate modern technology and engineering are much quieter or are placed in isolated locations. What has remained consistent in wind power facts and information is the cleanliness of production and the renewal of the energy resource.
Theoretically speaking, there is enough wind power in the United States to fulfill all of the nations energy needs. With such a clean and cost-efficient energy alternative at our disposal, it would be practical and economical to research and seriously consider the extended use of wind power.
Wind Power Energy
Wind power energy is growing in popularity. In the year 2007, wind energy generation increased in the United States by 45%. The year 2008 is projected to do the same. Growing concern over environmental issues and the public depletion of fossil fuels leaves many people searching for an economical and practical solution to the energy crisis. Over the past five years, wind power energy has begun to fill the supply and demand gap for energy. In fact, it is estimated that the United States has enough wind power energy to meet the entire nations energy needs.
Wind power energy projects span over thirty five states in the nation. Last year, the United States was one of the worlds leading generators of wind energy, and the energy generated powered millions of homes. Denmark leads the world with energy generation. Due to its relatively small population and great ability to generate, the country was able to supplement a vast amount of its energy needs with wind power energy. All around the world, national and local governments are creating and enacting aggressive energy policies. With the intention to reduce the cost of energy and find a clean alternative, wind power energy is expected to expand exponentially.
Wind energy is a zero emissions energy source, and the wind turbines produce no chemicals or pollution. In fact, over the course of a single residential turbines lifetime, the turbine can offset several tons of pollution that would otherwise be caused by conventional energy means. Additionally, wind power energy is incredibly economical. Residential turbines and turbines used to power small businesses can find a decrease of fifty to ninety percent on their utility bills. These wind turbines can also generate a pretty hefty profit for the turbine owners. When the energy generated from the turbines exceeds the energy needed to power the electric grid of the desired location, the local utility company will automatically purchase the excess energy. For turbine owners with turbines in prime locations, this profit can be quite large.
As the supply and demand for conventional energy diverge, people are turning to alternative energy solutions and are looking for an affordable and environmentally friendly option. The state and national governments in the United States are working diligently to promote energy programs to help solve the growing crisis. Some small business owners and residences are taking the initiative and producing their own energy. Investors looking for a great return in a budding market should seriously consider wind power energy initiatives. The available tax credits and affordability of wind generators make the offer appealing.
Wind Power Companies
Wind power is the fastest growing alternative energy source in the world. As such, it can be expected that wind power companies are proliferating as entrepreneurs are beginning to see the practical and economic benefits of wind energy conversion. Since the beginning of the millennium, wind power companies have been emerging as leaders in the energy industry. The environmentally friendly and economically practical nature of wind energy is a huge factor in the proliferation of the market. Currently wind power companies are broken down into two main categories: commercial scale and small scale.
Commercial scale wind power companies are dedicated to large scale turbines that generate 100 kW or greater and are generally connected to a large grid system. These companies are extremely complex and offer many resources for nations and large businesses that are looking into this beneficial energy alternative. Small scale wind power companies are simpler yet increasingly customer oriented. These companies offer installation services and general consultants for customers. Their customers tend to be individuals and small businesses. Individuals looking to save a bundle on wind power installation can buy wind energy kits straight from the wind power company and install the converters themselves. This is probably the best option for builders with a little time, patience, and knowledge of electric grids.
As more nations take aggressive energy policies in the direction of wind energy conversion and less dependency on fossil fuel derived energy sources, the wind power companies will continue to grow. This is great for environmentalists and those worried about the fate of nations dependent on foreign energy sources.
Wind energy is highly renewable and widely believed to be environmentally safe. However, the biggest debate regarding wind energy is over the placement of unsightly turbines. Since the best locations for wind power generation are open fields, mountainsides, and Oceanside, complaints are made that the turbines disrupt the natural aesthetics of the areas. While this is concerning, modern wind farms are continuously being built in these areas and no other environmental effects are seen. Though, the full scope of direct and indirect consequences of increased wind energy usage may never be seen.
The wind power companies are touting their environmental friendliness and cost-efficient product. As a zero emissions energy source and economical alternative to fossil fuel derived energy, the wind power industry is growing exponentially. In fact, the clean energy is beginning to fill the supply-demand disparity that has been growing in the United States for years. From nations to home residences, everyone has the capabilities to do their share for the environment.
