Electricity is one of the basic needs of man. We are capable of using electricity each and every day of our lives. Take for example; listening to a music player requires electricity. Today, most of the electric generators and power plants we have are powered by fossil fuels like coal and oil. Due to the extreme increase in energy demand, fossil fuel supplies are slowly being depleted. In addition, the use of fossil fuels have dispersed greenhouse gases and other unwanted components. Therefore, the search for alternative energy sources is important. One of the best alternatives today is the wind power generator.
So what exactly is a wind power? In short, it is the use of the wind to give life to an electrical generator. This mechanical force is a great source known even in the primitive ages. Persians in the past were able to use the wind to cut wood, pump water, grind food, and build windmills. Note that there are still windmills built on some farms. The use of wind as a source of electricity came to life much later. In 1970, the first real wind generators were created. But how come it’s not used much nowadays? Let’s look at the ups and downs of the wind power generator.
The good thing about wind power generators is that they have zero percent gas emissions unlike fossil fuel generators. Due to the growing concern about greenhouse gases and global warming, we want to have a power generator that is friendly to the environment. It does not emit harmful gases and is very safe to build near houses.
If one can provide the proper engineering and enough wind, these generators can generate a spectacular power rate. It can even extend to a megawatt range. Another advantage would be that it can be created with the use of a few small turbines attached together. It’s a great thing because you won’t have to worry about how much space it takes up.
The main disadvantage would be that wind power would differ greatly from place to place and on any given day. It cannot be said if the wind will be strong enough to supply power. Power cannot be maintained due to changes in weather patterns. You need to have a strong constant supply of wind. That is the reason why it is usually built in coastal areas. Another drawback would be that the structure is extremely large. It has to be proportional to the wind power it produces.
Due to its natural advantages, research on it has now intensified. With interest in alternative energy sources, our future will be greener and brighter. Remote areas would eventually partake of the benefits of it. Being dependent on electricity, power supplies must be capable of providing the required electricity in all homes and commercial establishments. In fact, wind power generators may be the key to power shortages.
