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Main Advantages and Disadvantages of Producing Wind Power

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Elison Evan
Main Advantages and Disadvantages of Producing Wind Power

Wind energy is one of the most widely used renewable energies on the planet. The commitment to this type of energy implies supporting a change in the energy model based on sustainability. In this article we will review the main advantages and disadvantages of wind power.

Wind energy is obtained from the wind and can be defined as the use of the kinetic energy of the air masses to convert it into mechanical energy and obtain electricity from it. It currently accounts for more than 3% of world electricity consumption and is expected to reach 18% by 2050 according to data from the International Energy Agency.

If you are interested in knowing more about how it works, you can read our post: What is wind energy and how does it work?

Main advantages or benefits of wind energy

Among the advantages and disadvantages of wind energy we must highlight that one of the most notable benefits of its use is that it is a renewable, non-polluting, indigenous and inexhaustible source of energy. In addition, it means a reduction in the use of fossil fuels, thus contributing to sustainable development. Here are some of its main benefits:

  1. It is renewable and clean energy.

It has its origin in atmospheric processes due to solar radiation, so it is a renewable natural resource that does not produce atmospheric emissions of pollutants.

  1. Wind energy is indigenous.

It is available almost everywhere on the planet, therefore it promotes wealth and the generation of local employment.

  1. It is adaptable to almost any space.

It can be installed in spaces not suitable for other purposes, such as desert areas, and it can also coexist with other uses of the land, such as cultivation or livestock.

  1. It has a quick installation.

It does not require mining or fuel transformation, and the quietest generators can be installed at different heights to achieve stable production.

  1. Allows self-feeding of homes.

Its use combined with photovoltaic solar energy, allows the self-powering of homes, avoiding the need to connect to supply networks.

  1. It is considered cheap energy.

It is a low-cost energy whose price remains quite stable, so it can compete in profitability with traditional energy sources, as well as being a source of savings.

Main disadvantages of wind energy

Among the advantages and disadvantages of wind energy we must point out the disadvantages that one of the biggest disadvantages of its use is the planning of obtaining energy due to the randomness of the wind. You can check the main disadvantages in this list:

  1. Lack of security in the presence of wind.

This reason prevents wind energy from being used as the sole source of electrical energy. However, this could be solved by using electrical energy storage devices.

  1. Speed cannot exceed a limit.

If the wind speed is higher than the maximum that the turbine can withstand, it causes damage to the shaft and production is decreased, so control systems are required to disconnect the wind turbine or modify the blades.

  1. High voltage lines need to be built.

To distribute electrical energy from wind farms, it is necessary to build high voltage lines capable of conducting the maximum amount of electricity generated.

  1. It implies an environmental impact.

The installation of wind farms causes damage and deaths of birds and bats and also has a visual impact on natural landscapes. New wind turbine designs are changing this trend.

  1. Wind farms occupy large areas.

Wind turbines must be separate, although this same area can be used simultaneously for other purposes.

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Elison Evan
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