Wind Power Basics
Wind + Sun = Power
Wind energy is actually driven by the sun. An estimated 1 to 3 percent of the energy from the sun is converted into wind energy. Power generated from wind is utilized to compliment power sources that are used for dispatchable generation. Wind resources in the United States are significant, with many large facilities in Northern California.
Wind Turbine Generators (WTG)
A wind turbine generator (WTG) usually consists of three blades on top of a tower with the blades facing into the wind. The wind turns the blades, which spins a shaft that is connected to a generator that produces electricity. The electricity is sent to a transmission or distribution line.
The Promise of Wind Power
Wind power is freely available, accessible, renewable and generates zero waste and zero pollution. It is comparative in cost with energy generated by natural gas, and installation is especially cost effective when Federal tax credits are applied.
Farmers and landowners reap additional income ($2,500-4,000 per turbine per year on average) from wind power installations, providing further incentive to develop wind facilities. Wind turbine generators are modular and quick to assemble, and require very little maintenance.
Challenges and Limitations
- Wind power is not dispatchable (not appropriate for base load)
- Birds can be killed by wind turbine blades
- Some people feel that wind turbines are unsightly
- Wind turbines can be noisy, though newer models are quieter
- Most of the prime locations for wind farms are far from transmission lines
WTG Facts & Figures
- Size can vary from the size of a water pump to utility scale
- The utility size - 600 kilowatts to 2 1/2 megawatts (MW) is the most cost effective
- Newer units can access the higher speed winds at elevations as high as 70 meters
- Most wind facilities in California are at Altamont, Tehachapi, and San Gorgonio passes
- Estimated lifespan of a WTG is 20 years
- Regular wind speeds of 17-27 mph are required to power a wind turbine generator