How to use wind energy to generate power
We have an ever-increasing thirst for energy. In the past fossil fuels – coal, oil, gas, wood and peat have in the main provided this energy. However, fossil fuels have two major problems, escalating costs and pollution. Alternatives to fossil fuels have been sought in two areas nuclear energy and renewable energy. The problems associated with nuclear energy are now well known and both economic and safety aspects may prevent the further expansion of nuclear power in most counties.
Small wind chargers with rotor sizes of less than 3 metres are available from several manufacturers as are plans for DIY units. Typical applications for the electrical energy generated by wind power include:
1. Charging batteries for low energy devices like lighting, radio, hi-fi, TV, etc.
2. Supplying power to remote locations such as caravans, boats and yachts, outhouses and workshops.
3. Maintaining electricity for animal fencing, fish farming, irrigation, chicken layers, meteorological recording stations, radio repeater units and many more.
Generating your own power from the wind, however small that amount is, can be very satisfying and in addition, help solve the problem of supplying power to remote locations without pollution.
The book contains sections on the history of wind power; the case for wind power; how you can use wind power; wind turbine design; energy storage; topping up wind-generated energy using other types of generator; website links