WIND ENERGY

Once called windmills, the technology used to harness the power of wind has

advanced significantly over the past ten years, with the United States increasing

its wind power capacity 30% year over year. Wind turbines, as they are now

called, collect, and convert the kinetic energy that wind produces into electricity

to help power the grid.

Wind energy is a byproduct of the sun. The sun’s uneven heating of the

atmosphere, the earth’s irregular surfaces (mountains and valleys), and the

planet's revolution around the sun all combine to create wind. Since wind is in

plentiful supply, it’s a sustainable resource for as long as the sun’s rays heat the

planet.

In addition, because wind power is a growing industry, it’s adding jobs to

communities around the world.

This aerial view of a wind turbine plant shows how a group of wind turbines can

make electricity for the utility grid. The electricity is sent through transmission and

distribution lines to homes, businesses, schools, and so on.