Wind Energy
What is wind energy?
Wind energy refers to electrical power produced through the capture of wind
by a wind turbine. The electricity generated by the wind turbine can be fed
into the existing electrical grid and used to power homes, businesses, schools,
and even municipalities.
In 1981 there were only about 10 MW of installed wind energy
capacity in the United States while today (2000) over 13,000 MW are installed.
Most of the generated wind power exists in California and Texas, as well as
southern Minnesota and northern Iowa.
Why
consider using wind energy?
The main advantage associated with wind energy is that it derives its energy
from a clean, non-polluting, and renewable resource. In addition, the resource
is adequately abundant in many parts of the United State and is free.
How does wind energy help reduce
carbon dioxide emissions and global warming?
Use of wind energy is very effective at reducing greenhouse gases and global
warming because the fuel source contains no carbon, unlike coal, petroleum,
or natural gas. In addition, no emissions are associated with generating electricity
from wind. These factors make wind energy extremely attractive as an alternative
fuel source.
Why
isn't wind energy more commonly used?
While wind energy has a "free" fuel source, wind turbines presently
require a higher initial cost investment versus a typical (coal or natural
gas) fossil fuel plant. Because of this, the cost per kilowatt-hour to the
consumer is generally higher for wind-derived electricity than for coal or
natural gas. However, when wind energy is compared to fossil fuel-fired power
plants on a life-cycle basis, which counts fuel costs as well as expected
operational and maintenance expenses, wind energy is much more attractive.
Where
does Kansas rank in total wind energy resource and production?
Kansas presently ranks third in the United States in total wind energy potential
behind North Dakota and Texas. In fact, the top three states have enough wind
energy potential to supply the total electrical needs of all lower 48 states.
WEB SITES (for more information)
www.awea.org
www.ases.org
