Wind turbines operate by using the kinetic energy of wind to turn propeller-like blades which spin a shaft connected to a generator to produce electricity. They work in opposition to a fan, with the wind turning the blades to generate power. Wind turbines are often mounted on towers over 100 feet tall to take advantage of faster, less turbulent winds higher above the ground. They can provide electricity for individual homes or buildings or be connected to electricity grids for wider distribution.

1. www.nrel.gov

2.  Wind turbines operate on a simple principle. The
energy in the wind turns two or three propeller-like
blades around a rotor. The rotor is connected to the
main shaft, which spins a generator to create electricity.

3. Wind is a form of Solar energy
Wind is caused by the uneven heating of
the earth’s surface and rotation of the Earth
Wind Turbines convert the kinetic energy in the wind to
mechanical power
A generator can convert the mechanical power into electricity
www1.eere.energy.gov

4. How it works cont.
 A wind turbine works the opposite of a fan
 The wind turns the blades, which spin a shaft,
 Which connects to a generator and makes
electricity.
www1.eere.energy.gov

6.  Wind turbines are mounted on a tower to
capture the most energy. At 100 feet or more
above ground, they can take advantage of
faster and less turbulent wind.
 Wind turbines can be used to produce
electricity for a single home or building, or they
can be connected to an electricity grid for more
widespread electricity distribution.

7.  Advantages of Wind Energy
 Clean and renewable source of power
 Cost effective
 Rapid growth of industry, large potential
 Disadvantages of Wind Energy
 Wind reliability
 Threat to wildlife
 Noise and visual pollution

8.  Flying Electric
Generators
 Kite Generators
http://www.popsci.com/scitech/article/2009-06/ http://www.mdpi.com/1996-1073/2/2/307/

9.  Designed to be High
Altitude ~ 6 miles
closer to the jet stream
 2 to 4 rotors, used for
both lift and power
generation, mounted
to a lightweight
airframe
 Would need to be
tethered to ground for
power collection and
control.
http://www.popsci.com/scitech/article/2005-11/windmills-sky

10.  Power is generated
as the kite is pulled
and released.
 Tethered to a
ground based
generator.
 Additional power
can be obtained by
capturing the
rotational forces of
the kite as well
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Airborne_wind_turbine

11.  Again, kites are
tethered to a land
based generator,
pulled and released
resulting in energy
gain.
 Rotational energy is
captured by carousel
turned by kites.
 Kite generators are
designed to operate
about ½ mile high.
http://www.mdpi.com/1996-1073/2/2/307