Blowing with the Wind……

Further to my previous blog, I am posting this blog which will put some light on Wind Energy.
Wind Energy Concept
Differential heating of the earth’s surface and atmosphere induces vertical and horizontal air currents that are affected by the earth’s rotation and contours of the land and generates WIND.
A wind turbine obtains its power input by converting the force of the wind into a torque (turning force) action on the rotor blades.
The amount of energy which the wind transfers to the rotor depends on the density of the air, the rotor area, and wind speed.
PLF of Wind Farm is normally in the range of 20% to 30% depending upon the site conditions and wind turbine rating.

The following diagram shows basic components of Wind Turbine Generator.


Let’s have a look at the present scenario of Wind Energy;Wind Power is the fastest growing renewable energy source in the world. Globally, it grew at the average rate of 27% pa over the past 10 years. While in India it grew at the average rate of 33% over the past 9 years.
Major drivers of growth are;

• Environmental Awareness Sustainable Development
• Growing Global Energy Demand
• Improving Competitiveness of renewable energy
• Security of Supply Concerns
• New Markets (India, China etc)
• Carbon Trading
• Fiscal Benefits by Government (PTC, feed in tariff, etc)

My next blog will give similar information on Solar Energy, the most available renewable energy source.