Wind energy is produced through the motion of air (wind) converted into a useable form, like electricity. In the past through windmills wind energy was directly converted into mechanical labor, to ground cereals into flour or pump water for example. Nowadays the word wind energy is mainly used for electrical energy delivered by wind turbine from the wind. Wind energy is sustainable energy.
Wind turbines
The wind is captured by rotor blades creating movement of these blades. We see two types of wind turbines either with a horizontally or vertically placed set of rotor blades. The axis to which the rotor blades are attached will also rotate when the wind turbine captures wind, putting a series of gearwheels in motion thus accelerating the movement and resulting in a higher power output.
To convert this movement into electricity, a generator is needed. This part of the machine creates magnetic fields, which in turn generates electricity that is stored or forwarded to the electricity grid. The principle of a generator can be simply compared to the functioning of a dynamo like the one we see on a bicycle to generate enough electricity to operate the lights.
Not all wind turbines today have gear wheels as some are equipped with special electronics that ensure that the movement is transformed into usable energy. These wind turbines with less moving parts and therefore less prone to technical malfunctioning.
The amount of power a wind turbine generates depends on a number of different factors including the size of the rotor blades, the quantity and the power of the wind, how often the wind is blowing and of course the number of windings used by the resistors. The functioning of a wind turbine with a series of gears is almost equal to one outfitted with electronics. Wind turbines can be placed on rooftops or on masts, depending on your individual circumstances and preferences.
In addition to the traditional wind turbine with rotor blades, there have been a number of innovations in the space including vertical wind turbines. These systems each have their own advantages and disadvantages and CECC has helped clients all across the Caribbean to sift through the mass of different systems and choose the one that is right for your application. We aim to stay abreast of any developments and will is your ideal partner when it comes to designing, the optimal installation at any time.