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Wind
Wind is a form of solar energy. The uneven heating of the earth’s atmosphere by the sun, the irregularities of the earth’s surface, and the rotation of the earth cause wind. Wind flow can be “harvested” by wind turbines to generate electricity. Wind turbines, similar to aircraft propeller blades, rotate in the moving air and power an electric generator which supplies an electric current. Electricity from wind turbines can be fed into the local utility grid and distributed to customers.
Wind power can provide cost-effective and reliable clean energy in the United States. Pennsylvania has good wind resources in portions of the state. Wind power generation in Pennsylvania is on the increase. By the end of 2001, approximately 75 MW of wind power will be produced in Pennsylvania. Wind power is categorized according to Wind Power Class. Wind class 1 (light blue) denotes very light winds; higher numbers indicate stronger winds. Usable wind resources are designated as a wind power class of 3 or higher.
Wind Power Characteristics
Wind Power Class
Power*
(w/m2)Speed*
(mph)Commercial Viability
*Wind characteristics at 50 meters above ground. Click for:
Wind Links
American Wind Energy Association (AWEA). AWEA promotes wind energy as a clean source of electricity for consumers around the world. AWEA is a national trade association that represents wind power plant developers, wind turbine manufactures, utilities, consultants, insurers, financiers, researchers, and others involved in the wind industry.
European Wind Energy Association (EWEA). EWEA is a non-profit, non-governmental association associated established in 1982 with a membership consisting of national affiliated societies, companies/ organizations involved in wind related activities.
NewWind Energy. The Pennsylvania Wind Campaign, a project of the Mid-Atlantic Renewable Energy, encourages businesses and residents, statewide and eventually region wide, to join the renewable energy campaign by purchasing electricity generated from high-tech Pennsylvania wind farms.
Wind Powering America. Wind Powering America is a U.S. Department of Energy Initiative to increase wind energy use in the United States. The program is a commitment to dramatically increase the use of wind energy in the United States. Through Wind Powering America, the U.S. will achieve targeted regional economic development, protect the local environment, reduce air pollution, lessen the risks of global climate change, and increase energy security.
