Wind Energy

Wind energy is another “clean” energy using the power of moving air to generate electricity. It is renewable because there is no shortage of air on the planet, and it is constantly in motion to a varying degree. It is not completely reliable because the wind is not always blowing, although the wind turbines are at least 100 feet above the ground to take advantage of the less turbulent and more abundant airflow, as compared to ground level.

Wind farm (US Department of Energy)

Wind energy currently makes up 4% of the US energy mix, but is growing and will eventually pass
hydroelectric as most rivers are dammed to capacity. An ideal place for wind farms in the central US
“Tornado Alley” because of nearly constant strong wind. Wind farms are compatible with the
traditional farms of the region and are an economic boon for farmers. They can lease land to energy
companies for windmill placement, and still have the ability to use nearly all of their land. Ridge tops
in the Appalachians are another great location, where topography produces adequate wind speeds.  

Developing technology has greatly improved the efficiency of windmills. Lighter blades, taller towers,
and control systems have increased the average capacity factor from 22% in 1998 to 33% in 2014. As
the race to replace fossil fuels continues, expect efficiency to increase further.

The downside to wind energy, aside from lack of wind, includes environmental impacts. Construction
of windmills in undeveloped areas requires access roads and site preparation, which can be a strain on
the environment. Leaking lubricants can pollute the soil. Birds and can be struck and killed by
windmill blades. However, fewer birds are killed by windmills than stationary buildings. Many birds
are learning to avoid areas containing windmills. Tornado Alley windfarms are away from major
flyways so migratory birds are less likely to affected in that region.

Birds and windmills are not always a good mix (NBC News)

Other negatives are aesthetics and safety. Many people believe the windmills are unsightly and ruin the
landscape. One workaround for that is to install them in developed areas, where they might actually
improve the view, especially if the view is mainly housing developments and shopping centers.
The focus then shifts to noise. The rotating blades can be noisy, depending on the distance from the
listened but the elevation above the ground helps reduce that.

Safety can be an issue when rotating blades are involved. Machines malfunction, and should a windmill
throw a blade, the potential for human death is there. A serious concern in Tornado Alley is that a
namesake tornado could destroy a wind farm and turn the blades into deadly projectiles.

This week's information comes from National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Mount Holyoke College, and US Department of Energy. Next week we'll take a look at solar energy.