Wind-Energy Utilization and Sustainability

Abstract

The chapter provides an in-depth analysis of the current state of wind-energy utilization globally, emphasizing the shift from conventional fossil fuels to renewable sources sustainably. Wind energy, in particular, has emerged as a promising alternative due to technological advancements, cost competitiveness, and environmental sustainability. The chapter explores the dominant role of wind turbines with a focus on Horizontal Axis Wind Turbines (HAWTs) and the growing interest in Vertical Axis Wind Turbines (VAWTs) through comparative studies. Global wind-energy utilization and electricity generation are scrutinized, revealing significant contributions from countries such as Germany, Spain, and the UK. The analysis includes data on electricity generation from wind power as a percentage of the total in various countries, offering insights into the global landscape. Additionally, wind-speed maps for selected countries highlight the importance of location and height in optimizing wind-energy harvesting. The chapter also delves into the characteristics of the world׳s largest wind farms, showcasing their substantial capacities and global distribution. Critical parameters like plant efficiency and capacity factor are discussed, providing a comprehensive understanding of wind-power-plant performance. A comparison with nuclear power plants elucidates the unique challenges and advantages associated with wind energy. Furthermore, the chapter addresses the challenges faced by wind energy, ranging from environmental and social concerns to grid-integration issues. The impact on bird-migration routes, visual pollution, land usage, and the intermittent nature of wind are carefully examined. The environmental benefits and drawbacks, including clean-energy production and noise pollution, are highlighted, emphasizing the need for thorough site evaluations and design considerations.