The Basics of Wind Power

Continuing my series on alternative energy sources, today I turn to the almighty power of wind. To me wind, more so than solar is the ultimate source of clean energy. I believe the power of wind will help us reduce the amount of coal and oil we burn to create electricity. The main reason I believe this will be the case is the fact that wind is a lot cheaper than solar and depending on the size of the wind turbine that you use; you actually control the amount of electric that you can create.

Wind power is very simple to understand. When the wind blows the fan blades turn on a windmill. As the windmill blades turn so does the alternator or generator it is connected to. Think of wind power as a big ceiling fan. As the alternator or generator gets spun from the wind, electric currents are created and in turn that power is then sent to a home, business to the city grid or whatever its intended use is.

There is nothing new or innovative about wind power. It has been around for decades, but because of the high cost of foreign fuels it really has only become main stream in the past few years.

As I stated before the amount of power that a windmill can generate depends on its size. The bigger the windmill the more power it will generate and in turn the less fossil fuel that is needed to burn. The downfall of this (if there really is one) is the larger the windmill the more area and height you need to build upon. Also, you need wind, of course, and not all areas of the country have a sufficient supply at reasonable heights.

That is the con part of wind power, here are the pros. Wind power can be added to any home or business for fewer than one thousand dollars. The “personal” windmill as I like to call it is becoming readily available through various manufacturing outlets. Also if you have even the least bit of handyman type of skills you can probably just build your own. Sure it may look a little rustic but as long as it works and cuts down your cost of electricity, what do you care!

Another benefit of wind power, as with other sources of green energy are the tax breaks the government gives you. If you happen to create too much electricity with your windmill or windmills (yes you can use more than one if you have the space), you can pump that extra power back into the city grid and you will actually be paid for it! The amount you get paid will depend on the wattage you supply back to the grid. Imagine creating enough electricity where the electric company actually pays you! Think it's unrealistic? Think again, it is going on all over the country right now by many who have made a commitment to alternative energy.

My recommendation before you start slapping windmills on your property is to do your research thoroughly before you get started. Make sure your town and local government does not require permits or other legalities first. Once that is all clear, determine at what height your area actually produces adequate wind to generate the power you need to implement this alternative energy. Then get to work either buying a windmill or building your own and get an electrician to install it. Hire one that is knowledgeable about wind power. Don't forget to contact your local electric company to see how you can pump electric back into the grid so they will pay you for it.

Between the electric companies paying you and you saving money on your electrical bills, the windmill will pay for itself in no time, and the best part is the peace of mind you will receive knowing you are helping to eliminate the need of foreign oil and fossil fuels.

About the Author:
Mr. Tucker is a regular contributor on Bukisa, an online community where you earn residual income by sharing your knowledge.  Do not forget you can use this article on your own website or blog by simply copying and pasting the code from the “Syndicate this Article” section located on the right.