Advantages of Wind Turbines

Wind energy has not seeped into the main grid of electricity consumption where large-scale economies and population exist. Nonetheless the possibilities of this eco-friendly and renewable source of energy are being expanded beyond its existing limits. The reason being that, onshore wind energy produced by large turbines, integrates into almost 10% of the total electricity produced in certain regions of Denmark, Germany, Spain and Sweden. Ideally speaking wind energy is gaining popularity but at a very scattered and slow rate. Probably because not all onshore areas receive adequate amounts of persistent winds so as to propel the turbines for continuous electricity supply.

Also wind electricity cannot be transferred to distant regions and thus has to be distributed to the sectors near the turbine. On the other hand offshore wind turbines receive a lot more supply of wind and electricity. However, only areas closer to the offshore are able to utilize its benefits, unless of course electric transmission lines are built that reach the big cities. What we do need to consider is that even small steps at reducing pollution, green house gases and non-renewable energy can help make earth cleaner for all.

Benefits of Wind Turbines

• Wind energy is clean and it does not produce carbon dioxide, or other pollutants.
• Unlike nuclear power grids, wind energy does not need to deal with radioactive substitutes or have to face possible dangers of radioactive exposure and leakage. All wind turbines need is wind and a foundation to be placed upon.
• Neither is the entire cost of construction and installation of a wind turbine, anywhere close to those expended by governments for thermal as well as nuclear power plants.
• Wind energy provides sufficient electricity to power hundreds of houses in a given sector.
• These turbines do not require fuel or other substitutes so as to keep them running properly. As mentioned before all it needs is wind supply.
• Wind energy produces more electricity with the increase in the size of the turbines as well as the supply of winds.
• It can always be used as backup when due to extreme situations, thermal electricity is unavailable.
• Wind is free! So, apart from the initial installment expenses, the rest is all yours to benefit from.
• While the turbines may look mighty, the base of the turbines needs very little space to be stationed at.
• Since 2007, there are smaller turbines available which can be installed by individuals on the roof tops of their houses similar to how solar panels can be fitted. This ensures that clean electricity is perpetually being produced as well as consumed, for manufacturing business or even basic sustenance.
• Contrary to popular misconceptions, these eco-friendly turbines are a necessity for both the developed, developing as well as the underdeveloped countries of this world.
• Remote areas where it is difficult for electricity to reach, can instead opt for wind electricity for their basic needs.

Disadvantages of Wind Turbines

• While wind turbines are being modified through newer technology, it seems that they create a lot of noise pollution.
• In most countries a legal permit is required so as to be able to set up a wind turbine in any area, which depends on the zoning bylaws, environmental assessments for larger turbines, liabilities and insurance which require basic precautions be taken so as to ensure that the safety and technical necessities are followed.
• Wind is not constant. The supply depends on weather conditions. Therefore it cannot be relied on completely in areas where blowing wind is not at a constant high velocity.
• The required transmission lines haven't been installed that can make it possible for offshore electricity to be delivered to bigger cities.
• Wind turbines are more likely to get damaged due to lightning bolts, in warmer climates.
• The initial cost borders on unaffordable for many individuals.
• Some claim that these turbines cause harm to birds and bats.

Well, if the truth be told, normal levels of pollution and toxins end you doing a lot more damage to the environment which, cannot even be quantified. The advantages are far greater than the disadvantages of wind turbines and in the long run, the benefits are bound to increase. When combined along with solar energy for electricity, there might just come a time when we would no longer need polluting and toxic means for producing electricity. Every step counts in making earth greener, so take yours today.