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Wind energy is good for our economy, environment and energy security because of the potential for owner revenue, revitalization of the rural communities and reduction of dependence on the power grid -- all without consuming natural resources or emitting pollution or greenhouse gases.
In a typical wind turbine, wind energy is converted to rotational motion by a rotor, which turns a shaft that passes into a gearbox, which increases the rotational speed. This transmission is attached to a high-speed output shaft, which is connected to an electrical generator.
Wind turbines come in a variety of sizes depending on the planned use for the electricity. Some wind turbines are used to charge batteries for buildings not connected to the utility grid. Some turbines can supply all or part of the electricity used by a business or farm. Large-scale wind farms with multiple turbines are used to harvest the wind above acres of land, usually to feed power into the electrical grid. Whatever your application, Johnson Controls can provide a complete wind power solution.
In a typical wind turbine, wind energy is converted to rotational motion by a rotor, which turns a shaft that passes into a gearbox, which increases the rotational speed. This transmission is attached to a high-speed output shaft, which is connected to an electrical generator.
Wind turbines come in a variety of sizes depending on the planned use for the electricity. Some wind turbines are used to charge batteries for buildings not connected to the utility grid. Some turbines can supply all or part of the electricity used by a business or farm. Large-scale wind farms with multiple turbines are used to harvest the wind above acres of land, usually to feed power into the electrical grid. Whatever your application, Johnson Controls can provide a complete wind power solution.
Is this the right technology for my situation?
The following elements are important for wind to be a viable option:
- For each MW of electricity to be produced, a free-standing turbine typically needs up to 6 acres of land
- To determine wind generation capabilities, a study of wind speed and quality must be done
- If overproducing electricity for your own use, access to an electrical grid is important
- Wind incentives and tax credits in your state may help fund wind products
Wind Power Facts:
- The U.S. wind industry had 40,181 MW of wind power capacity installed at the end of 2010, with 5,116 MW installed in 2010 alone.
- The U.S. wind industry has added over 35% of all new generating capacity over the past 4 years, second only to natural gas, and more than nuclear and coal combined.
- Today, U.S. wind power capacity represents more than 20% of the world’s installed wind power.
- Over 400 manufacturing facilities across the U.S. make components for wind turbines, and dedicated wind facilities that manufacture major components such as towers, blades and assembled nacelles can be found in every region.
(Source: American Wind Energy Association)
To read a more in-depth review of this technology, visit the NREL website.
For more information on wind energy or for a more in-depth resource map.
