In very simple language, wind power is nothing but the translation of wind energy into an effective form of energy. For example wind turbines for making electricity, wind mills for mechanical power, wind pumps for pumping water or drainage, or sails to propel ships etc. Generally, in order to provide electricity to distant places smaller wind farms are used and the big scale wind farms are joined to the electric power transmission network. Wind energy is power source which is bountiful, renewable, distributed widely, fresh, and creates no greenhouse gas emissions during the operation and therefore, is considered as a useful substitute to fossil fuels. However, due to their visual influence and other effects on the environment, the creation of wind farms is not generally appreciated.

In order to produce electricity, wind energy is very essential. Wind power is usually non-dispatchable, that means it is for cost-effective function. All of the obtainable output must be taken when it is accessible to match the supply with demand. However, for other kinds of resources, the techniques such as: hydropower and standard load management techniques must be used. When using wind power to provide a low percentage of total demand, the intermittency of wind rarely creates any issues, but the prices and the costs increase with the proportion rise.

For the purpose of irrigation and milling, wind energy systems have been in use since a long period of time. In the beginning of the 20th century, in order to produce electric power, wind energy systems are used. In many countries, especially in the rural areas Windmills for water pumping have been installed.

The most cost-effective use of wind electric turbines is in collection of large machines which is called as wind power plants or wind farms. Generally, in the wind farms, the individual tribunes connected with each other with a medium voltage power collection system and communications network. Then, at a substation, in order to connect with the high voltage electric power transmission system, the voltage of the medium-voltage electrical current is increased with a transformer. In some jurisdictions, the extra power generated by domestic micro generators are supplied into the network and sold to the value company that creates a retail credit for micro generators’ owners to reimburse their energy costs.

The source of the wind is the heat of the sun. When the sun rays fall on the surface of the earth, it warms up every part of the earth’s surface, such as soil, water, sand and rock. But it can’t heat up each part equally and in same speed, as every part of the earth’s surface has a different capacity of absorbing, retaining, reflecting and releasing the heats. During the day time, the amount of heat increases while in the time of night it decreases. As a result of which certain part of the earth’s surface get warmed and cool down at different level. The hot air increases by decreasing the atmospheric pressure near the Earth’s surface that draws in cooler air to replace it and this air movement is called wind.

There are lots of energy sources which create pollution, such as fossil fuel. Here comes the best thing about using wind energy, use of wind energy doesn’t create any kind of pollutant that can affect environment. Moreover, unlike other energy sources, there is no shortage of this energy; it is easily available to all without any single penny. Wind energy has been used since years for various purposes by people, such as: to make electricity people have been using wind turbines, for mechanical power using wind mills, for pumping water or drainage or sails to propel ships using wind pumps.

Finally, it can be said that in assessment to the environmental effects of traditional energy sources, the wind power has relatively minor environmental effects, as it consumes no fuel and thus, releases no air pollution. The energy that are used to build and convey the materials for making a wind power plant is equal to the new energy generated by the plant within a limited period of operation.

However, in certain location, planting a wind farm may lead to some dangerous situations to birds and bats. However, studies have revealed that the birds killed by wind turbines is not very high in comparison to the number of those that die due to certain other ways, such as: generating electricity and particularly by the environmental impacts of using non-clean power sources. The production of fossil fuel kills more birds as many per unit of energy generated than the wind-farms. At last, we can say that using natural resources to produce energy is always a great thing, but not all natural resources are available in unlimited portion, so using them in proper way not only help us to get what we need but also will do welfare to the whole mankind.

If we check recent studies there is a considerable increase in the amount of efforts being put forward by various communities and societies? Government subsidies have also made significant difference in the process. Wind turbines make electricity and are the only available option to people living in remote areas. The whole procedure involved in the production of electricity by using the power of wind energy has got multiple benefits. There is no pollution or greenhouse gas emission to be discussed over here. It was wisely said long ago that “earth can take care of itself; the onus is onto us to save humanity”. So, not for the sake of earth, not for the sake of others or for the fear of global warming it shall just be simply for equal and fair distribution of natural resources. Let us all start participating in those activities that encourage Wind energy factor and how to save everything that is important.

Countries like Germany and Denmark etc have taken it seriously and are providing financial benefits to organizations who are undertaking such efforts. A section of society would also support the fact that wind power industry cannot be taken as regular means of electricity providing units as it completely relies on natural raw material like wind etc. There is an amount of certainty in it however barriers are meant to be crossed and broken for the betterment of all. Sometimes it is good to have complications otherwise it would be hard to realize the kind of potential that is hidden both in the subject being discussed and the person in charge. Denmark produces one-fifth of its total production by wind turbines and that is maximum by any other country.

Ever since the beginning, we have been looking out for energy saving measures but never had enough faith or trust in the concept. And this is quite visible in the approach that we have undertaken for years now. We have missed on opportunities like wind energy and solar energy by a striking distance. This seems to be good enough time to gather our thoughts and work in the same direction.

Wind energy has brought many a shining light above the shoulders and reasons to continue believing in the prosperity factor of Mother Nature. To produce electricity, is the chief component of wind energy. One of the other reasons of its success, that it is economical in nature.  Solar energy is another such vital prospect lying ahead of us. Human civilization is on the brink of losing natural resources and the reason is not due to over-use of certain aspects. Rather the most embarrassing factor involved over here is that we have not been able to pick and standardize our natural resources intelligently.

There is nobody to be blamed in this fight of misconduct instead of ourselves as a nation and society. Now, back to the prime point of focus and the good thing is that few countries are making attempts to shower change. Wind energy factor is gaining popularity and there are 80 countries in the world who have taken an initiative to widen the horizon. Wind energy has got all the attributes of an ideal wind power means as it is clean, renewable and has got no side-effects at all. We forgot to mention the point air pollution in this respect. There is a trend going on in the market where many utility companies are approaching domestic turbines to buy surplus electricity.

Wind energy is the only concept available to tackle the imminent danger. It has more advantages than few hardships. Yes, and definitely we have got an understanding over here. Wind energy has got its bad factors attached however the color black does not always represent night. It has got high capital cost and is the only cause of worry for some. In short, it is somewhat expensive due to the inclusion of various things. Wind power industry is going at a competitive speed and in the next few years it would reach a substantial figure.

Wind energy discussion is similar to the nature of floating iceberg. There is always more to it than what can be seen or heard.

Today people have made wind mills which work with rotor and generator. It has made life simpler for many people. It is important to note here that most developed countries of the world like United States of America and Germany use wind power for their various purposes.

Wind power is tomorrow for mankind. With scarcity of natural resources all around, this is only one source of energy which can never end and is absolutely free in all parts of the globe. Let us look at some surprising facts about wind mills and the energy they produce:

1. By the end of year 2010, United Kingdom will increase the usage of wind power. It will become ten percent powered by wind.
2. If we talk about total power usage in Spain, then six percent of the total power used is powered by wind.
3. Germany consumes eight percent of its power with the help of wind power.
4. By the end of year 2010, it has been speculated that almost six percent of the total power consumed in United States of America will be harnessed through wind.
5. Talking about Denmark, well, it gets highest percentage of power consumption from wind. It consumes twenty percent of its total power from wind.

All these points which have been mentioned above clearly show that the future will rely on wind power. This is so obvious because unlike other natural resources, wind power does not result in any kind of pollution, be it soil pollution, air pollution or water pollution. Apart from that, this fuel (kind of fuel) is absolutely free. There is no charge to it. One can easily earn a lot of money through getting wind mills planted. Apart from that this will also result in cutting down of the pollution in the atmosphere. If reports are to be believed that, electricity generators across the globe result in emission of maximum air pollutants. If we start using electricity generated from wind power then this problem can be easily resolved over a period of time.

Other benefits involve getting tax benefits. Yes, you read it right. There are tax benefits to people who engage in to wind mills business. Apart from that credit facilities are also easily available for people who are willing to install and produce wind power. Hence, the governments in various countries are also appreciating people who are taking up this initiate of preserving earth. Go green..!!

Though there are so many advantages that can be listed but summarizing them into few, the following can be some. Firstly, the wind energy is a renewable energy. If once used, it can be used time and again without it ever worrying about it being extinct at any time.
Secondly, people living in farms can make it as a source of flour generation from wheat. They are the population who are usually dependent upon the basic resources of life so, such a solution is something they would never want to ignore. People say even water can be one such source but then even in this scenario, water is being consumed but whereas in the case of wind, it still remains abundantly available.

Thirdly, the money involved in it very reasonable and high revenue generating one. Once when the investment has been done to establish the device at an appropriate location and a store house has been made beneath it, the day to day utilization of it in terms of generating resources like flour and electricity.

There have so many questions arising whether a dream of making this source of energy to be used in every sphere is possible, it has been more or less figured out. A miniature island in Denmark is an excellent example that has proved them as a success in using the wind power energy as a source to generate electricity every day. This location has also been able to do so because they have the advantage of continuous flowing wind energy. No matter how the weather is, the wind keeps on flowing. The sea on the northern side is a benefit on this opportunity as it increases the chances of having excess flow f wind energy. They have made sure to use only this energy for power generation to make it more economical and a healthy place to live in.

Well though we are well aware of the advantages this source of energy has, we avoid making such investment considering it a slow process but the truth is that is capable of moving at a very fast pace, if provided with adequate supply of wind. Take it as a piece of advice and get involved into such kind of investment as it will prove to be a successful investment and also a long term one. Profit is what people look for and this source is entirely a profit with no loss to be faced!

Water pumping for example is an application where wind power is being used extensively both at homes as well as in businesses as a standalone system. Water, as it is well known, is the secret of our lives and as such a reliable and continuous supply of clean water in one of the basic needs. Needless to say the most widely consumed element on the surface of this earth must of course be mad available to the public in the least expensive way that is possible. Mechanical water pumping systems have been used since long however its efficiency has always been not up to the mark. Hence, the wind electric pumping system, which works on the basic principles of a mechanical pump except that the water pumps is electrical and the electricity required to run it, is produced by wind power. Here the energy transformations are quite efficient yielding tremendous water output and as a blessing – it is maintenance free!

The water pumping system is simple and comprises mainly of a turbine, pumping head and equipment sizing. The volume of water that is to be pumped in depends on the size of the turbine being used, total pumping head and of course the wind speed. The turbine’s performance is also dependent on its rotor diameter and they are typically installed by system designers at high altitudes to subject it to optimum wind speed. The pumping head refers to a combination of the static head, the well drawdown and pipe friction. The first denotes the distance between the water storage tank outlet and the water level below the ground i.e. the water table and the well drawdown is the level up to which the water levels off while pumping. There could be losses due to friction in the pipe during pumping which can be compensated with extra pumping heads.

Similarly other household applications that are run using wind power include refrigeration and freezing, as heaters and coolers, and lighting. In industries, the applications using wind power are ever growing. It is primarily used for applications with low fuel efficiencies. Some applications that are employing wind power include telecommunications especially in radar systems. It is used as a navigational aid in pipeline control systems. Further uses have been identified in weather forecasting, seismic monitoring, cathodic protection and last but not the least in air-traffic control (ATC) systems. Wind power systems for industries are manufactured with more robustness and are expected to be maintenance free or with minimal maintenance than household applications.

Steel is another element which has contributed endlessly towards the success of the so far installed wind power utilities. Statistics reveal that more than 80% of the world’s wind turbines are outfitted with cylindrical steel structures. The use of steel has also proven to be cost effective since the total energy investment to manufacture and install a typical wind turbine can be recovered within nine months after configuration.

The fact of paramount importance is the wind power can support up to GWhs of energy with little or no environmental pollution, certainly not carbon dioxide. For instance, in Denmark, the Horns Rev wind farm can generate up to 650 GWh annually and all it takes to operate is 80 wind turbines. This figure is equivalent to the annual energy consumption of the entire population i.e. 319,000 of Iceland. And if compared to the amount of CO2 emissions the results are estimated to be breathtaking. The CO2 emissions of the entire farm over its entire tenure are estimated to be only 7.6 g of CO2/kWh.

Estimates and predictions from knowledge discovery databases and data mining agents depict a substantial amount of 500 TWh of global electrical energy to be generated by 2013 with only as much as 155% of wind energy. Also this would prevent the emission of almost 250 million tonnes of CO2 if the energy source would have been otherwise. Moreover the emission of CO2 in the entire life cycle of a wind power system is also minimal when compared with other sources. In the 20 year life span of a 1.65 MW wind turbine, the CO2 emissions amounts to only 6.5g per KWh and that too from while it is in the production or manufacturing phase. This emission is negligible if compared with the 504 g of CO2/kWh emitted by the other sources of electricity globally.

Undoubtedly, wind power continues to be the undisputed energy source and has now become the first choice of countries around the world. For instance, in 2007, US, China and Spain had brought about a global increase of wind power by 27% by installing over 20 GW of wind power. With this, the global installed capacity peaked to 94 GW. About 70 countries or more are currently enjoying the benefits of wind power and among them Germany tops the list to be the largest wind energy producer with 22 GW installed capacity. Europe solely had accounted for having a capacity of 8.7 GW of installed wind power in 2007.

A windmill is actually a machine which driven by the power of the wind. It consists of blades or sails, which generate to convert the wind energy into other form of more useful energy such as electricity or power to pump water.

Back then in the middle ages Europe, windmills were used to mill or grind grain. This is where the original word of ‘mill’ derived.  It had a simple type of windmills consist of poles with blades. Centuries later, it turned into tower mills which took shape as windmills with tower in its based and a rotator on top of it. Tower mills known as ‘torenmolens’ in Dutch. It performed much better work than the previous windmills since it could farm even in a lower wind.

In the industrial revolution era, steam and engines replaced windmills. But for some countries windmills are preserved as antique machinery for their historic value. The original use of windmills nowadays is usually done in ranches in remote area that has less connection with latest technology.

The interesting part is that the world has changed when the prices of energy increases very high. People tend to go back to the use of windmills for the sake of saving their pocket and preserving the environment at the same time.

The necessity of less cost energy pushes companies to find effective way to create new source of energy. They went back to windmills and build ‘windfams’ as their alternative commercial energy for production. Now modern windmills equipped with turbines or generators to generate electricity. They can produce electricity up to 6 MW of power or similar to 500 – 1,300MW for conventional power plant.

Other type of windmill usage is a windpump. As it sounds, a windpump is used for pumping water from soil. It’s largely used in Africa and has a function to supply water for human and animals. Particularly in countries where lies above sea level, windpump is functioned to drain the land, as it did in Netherlands, some part in United Kingdom, and also in East Anglia.

A windmill has thermal and electric power output which produces by windmill’s blade rotation. They are mounted and connected to a speed increaser machine and compressor that moved by wind applied to the blades of the windmill itself. To produce electricity, a gas turbine generator should be connected to the compressor. A windmill can generate power or heat by adding impeller type of air brake and a valve and also a heat-sensitive control.

Here are the windmill power specifications for generating electricity:

1. It has a function as an electricity generator
2. Minimum wind speed is 10 km/hr.
3. Maximum wind speed is 50 km/hr
4. Rotor specifications are: blade made of aluminum with 3 m in diameter, its framework made of bagel steel
5. Body specifications are: tail model pointed to the top, frame work made of hollow steel
6. Tower specifications are: 10 m in height, it has L stripe steel framework
7. Generator specifications are: direct current electricity generator with power range from 1000 watts, 2000 watts, to 5000 watts.

Windmills, which use as alternative energy sources will play a great part in replacing fossil fuels power plants. It’s renewable and clean for the environment. It even helps us to create better climate in the future. Wind is free to get and produce no pollutions to earth, which can make our environment healthier for generations to come.

Wind power information and history dates back since 1000 B.C. – 1300 A.D. where the first and the earliest known use of it can be seen in work principles of a sail boat in which influenced the further development of sail-type windmills. The Persians developed the first windmills sometimes in the seventh century for irrigation pumping and grain-grinding although no official documentation available supporting this statement. These windmills developed by The Persians were using the vertical axis system, the same system used for windmills in China.

They claimed that windmills actually invented in China more than 2000 years ago, but unlike the Persians, a Chinese statesman Yehlu Chuu-Tshai have the early documentation of a Chinese windmills in 1219. The evolution of the Persian windmill fly across to Europe, where the first windmills to appear there were differ from the ones in Persia and China as they use horizontal-axis configuration. These European windmills believed to be more advanced in structure and function where they consisted of blades and rotors clasped together by a tower, which was mounted upon a post, otherwise known as a post mill.

Further developments were made as in 1888 an American; Charles F. Brush produced electricity using wind-powered machines which energize his home and laboratory until the early 1900′s. In 1979 the new age of wind power industry began where wind turbines were made in Denmark with the capacity of 20-30 kW each and progress were made since and the production has gone worldwide.

We can use the wind’s energy thanks to the invention of wind turbines, which operates simply like this: the wind turns the blades, and the blades shall spin a shaft which connects to a generator and of course like we all know the generator produces electricity.

Wind is an inexhaustible source and renewable source of energy, unlike the widely used energy these days: oil. As addition, wind power is not harmful to the environment and it’s decentralized, so even small groups can own and manage their own fields. One can use wind power conjunct with the existing methods which means you can have your home to be supplied with electricity from the local company and from your wind turbine.

If you have the chance to go to a Southeast Asia country called Indonesia which is widely known for its ‘island of gods’ Bali, the use of wind power also applied there as well, although the average wind speed in Indonesia is below 5.9 m/s but it doesn’t mean it’s useless. In 2007 five unit of wind turbines established in Selayar Island (3 units), North Celebes (2 units), and one unit each for Nusa Penida, Bali and Bangka Belitong following 5 others with the power of 80 kW.

Indonesia has mapped some potential areas which have wind speed 5 m/s, such as East Nusa Tenggara, West Nusa Tenggara, South Celebes and South Coast of Java. After knowing the brief history about wind power, and its superb potential power even for less potential wind country like Indonesia we can see how wind power can rapidly developed in the future.