Wind energy is one of the many renewable technologies changing the world. Wind turbines help us harness this clean, renewable power source, which can significantly reduce our dependence on fossil fuels.
Carbon emissions are produced by burning fossil fuels to generate power. Whether we use that power to warm our homes or provide a factory with electricity, carbon emissions are extremely harmful to the environment.
Wind energy significantly reduces reliance on fossil fuels and the production of carbon emissions while promoting energy independence. Continue reading to learn about the different types of wind energy and how they benefit the environment.
Onshore Wind Energy
The most common type of wind energy is onshore. As the term suggests, these wind farms exist on land. Wind passing through the blades causes them to rotate, which triggers the generator within the turbine to produce electricity. The size of the turbine and the speed of the wind determine the amount of electricity the turbine produces.
Onshore wind farms are often located in areas with consistent wind patterns to ensure maximum electricity production. However, technological advancements have led to the creation of turbines that can operate at lower wind speeds, making onshore wind energy more accessible to regions with less intense wind.
Offshore Wind Energy
Offshore wind energy refers to wind farms located at sea or in large bodies of water. These installations have the advantage of harnessing wind that is stronger and more consistent than wind on land. The absence of geographical constraints allows for the installation of larger turbines to enhance electricity production.
These mechanisms also present unique challenges, including higher installation and maintenance costs, logistical complexities, and potential environmental impacts on marine life. Nevertheless, offshore wind turbines are immensely effective green energy solutions.
Distributed Wind Energy
Distributed wind energy systems refer to wind turbines installed close to the end user and are often used to offset part of the consumer’s electricity bill. These systems can exist on residential, agricultural, commercial, industrial, or community sites.
Unlike large-scale wind farms that feed into the grid, distributed wind systems primarily serve the local load. In other words, they send excess power back to the grid when the wind is blowing, and the local load is not fully utilizing the output.
The primary advantage of this system is the ability to generate power on-site. It immensely reduces transmission losses and promotes energy independence. Distributed wind energy is especially beneficial to rural and remote areas where grid access may be unreliable or unavailable.
Note that the smaller turbine size means a lower power output. However, it remains an efficient wind energy resource.
Wind tower construction requires cranes operated by skilled technicians to complete the job. Without wind power, we would rely heavily on fossil fuels that endanger the environment when processed. Whether you are considering a small wind turbine for your backyard or advocating for large-scale wind energy projects in your community, understanding the different types of wind energy can help you make informed decisions for a greener tomorrow.
