Wind power – a renewable source of energy

A renewable source of power generation in which wind is used to turn large propeller-like blades to produce kinetic energy, which is turned into electricity through an electric generator. Wind turbine technology has advanced significantly over the last few years; for example, today’s blades capture the potential of wind even better than before.

Wind turbines are installed in areas where the wind blows regularly. When wind passes through a turbine, the unique shape of the blades causes them to rotate. As the blades spin, they produce kinetic energy, which turns a shaft that is connected to an electric generator.

Electricity generated by wind farms is used by homes and businesses. But unlike some other sources of energy, it is important to note that wind energy is renewable. This means that one important use of wind power is to offset the emissions created by carbon-based electricity generation. Wind power will play an important role in the move to a CO₂-free, renewable energy future.

When there is no wind, another source of energy is needed to balance the energy demand. Fortum balances the wind power production with our large hydropower assets. The ability to use hydro facilities as a regulator for intermittent wind production is important for the power system today. And it provides us with 100% renewable energy.

Many regions in the world have strong winds on a regular basis. And, in most cases, it makes sense to set up a wind turbine to capture this natural source of energy. However, for regions closer to the equator – where the sun shines regularly, solar can often be a better option for renewable power generation.

Carbon emissions are kept as low as possible during construction of a wind farm. After construction, it takes less than half a year for all those emissions to be offset by the renewable energy the wind farm produces. During its production lifetime, typically 20-30 years, wind power is emissions free.