Wind power has tripled in the past decade because of its capacity to power millions of homes. Wind power starts with the sun. The sun has to heat a part of the land and the air above it before the wind can blow. Wind turbines convert the energy in the wind into electricity through a simple process. The wind puts pressure on the slender blades of the turbine and they start to spin. Then, these spinning blades cause the internal shaft and conical cap to spin too.
The ultimate goal in the process is to cause the magnets in the generator to spin. Then, the turbine converts the kinetic energy in the wind to mechanical power which is used directly in windmills or converted into electricity for homes and offices. Research shows that wind energy is more efficient than solar energy as a large gust of wind can power almost 600 homes, a task that many solar panels will have to perform.
The use of wind energy has contributed to the world in several ways. One of the ways is that it has contributed to reducing global warming. Some of the energy that would have been generated from other means that could lead to global warming are gotten from wind energy. If you want to invest in a wind energy company or you want to utilize wind energy for electricity in your home, you should read about wind energy companies on USReviews before making your decision. You will get reviews from other customers that have invested in or used a company on how they fared. Here are some uses of wind energy:
Transportation
For thousands of years, wind energy has been used in transportation – sailing. The wind is used to power both large and small ships capable of sailing. Some shipping companies have embraced the use of wind energy again. Large kites are installed in cargo ships and fishing trawlers, and this helps to reduce fuel consumption and carbon footprints.
Sports
Some sporting activities are done using wind energy. For instance, windsurfing involves using a sail attached to the surfboard, while sailing involves teams or individuals sailing to race one another. There are also other activities like kitesurfing and kiteboarding. However, activities such as gliding and parachuting don’t make use of wind energy, rather they are classified as air sports and don’t need wind for propulsion.
Food and water
Traditionally, wind energy has been used for pumping water and in food production. Wind pumps, which have a similar look to windmills, are used to pump water. They were used to drain the land but are gradually been replaced by electric motors. Also, wind energy is used for milling grains which are used to produce foods such as bread. Even though industry machines have made food production more efficient, this is still used in some places.
Electricity
There are small wind electric systems that allow you to have a consistent power supply. Even though they don’t power your home 100%, they help you remain connected to the grid. They also help you save on energy costs and are more eco-friendly. Another use of wind energy is to charge batteries. There are wind turbines that work even when the wind is not blowing.
There are also mini turbines that can charge your laptops and cell phones. Wind energy is a good investment, especially in rural and suburban areas. You can either choose to go off the grid or remain connected to the grid. If you have enough money or secure financing, you can invest in a residential wind turbine to get a consistent power supply.