ABOUT WIND
Wind is a form of
solar energy. Winds are caused by the uneven
heating of the
atmosphere by the sun, the irregularities of the earth's surface, and
rotation of the earth. Wind flow patterns are modified by the earth's
terrain, bodies of water, and vegetation. Humans use this wind flow, or
motion energy, for many purposes: sailing, flying a kite, and even
generating electricity.
The terms wind energy or wind power describes
the process by which the wind is used to generate mechanical power or
electricity. Wind turbines convert the kinetic energy in the wind into
mechanical power. This mechanical power can be used for specific tasks
(such as grinding grain or pumping water) or a generator can convert
this mechanical power into electricity.
So how do wind turbines make
electricity? Simply stated, a wind turbine works the opposite of a fan.
Instead of using electricity to make wind, like a fan, wind turbines
use wind to make electricity. The wind turns the blades, which spin a
shaft, which connects to a generator and makes electricity.
California
having coastal and
mountainous regions has many excellent
wind resource areas.
See
below