Wind Energy Systems

Chapter 1

Overview

The terms wind energy and wind power describe the process by which the wind is used to generate mechanical power or electricity. Wind turbines convert the kinetic energy in the wind into mechanical power. This mechanical power can be used for specific tasks (e.g., grinding grain or pumping water), or a generator can convert this mechanical power into electricity to power homes, businesses, schools, and the like. Recently, generation of electricity using wind power has received much attention all over the world. This chapter provides an overview of wind energy systems.

1.1 Introduction

Wind energy is a free, renewable resource, so no matter how much is used today there will still be the same supply in the future. Wind energy ...