Wind Energy

  

Wind energy is one of the renewable energy sources. Unlike non-renewable sources, they cannot be depleted. Wind energy replenishes itself naturally. As the world’s energy demands grow, it is therefore ideal for Africa now to consider such non-renewable energy technologies as wind energy. This is not only because it cannot be depleted but also wind energy does not pose much threat to our environment. Thus, wind energy as one of the clean energy can be counted to replace fossil fuels. 

Wind power is produced by a wind turbine. A turbine converts the kinetic energy, that is, the force of the wind acting on rotor blades into mechanical energy (torque). The rotational energy can be put into usage in a range of options including power generation, windmills, wind generators, and water pumps. Wind turbines can be located onshore or offshore (Asumadu-Sarkodie and Owusu, 2016). Wind energy technologies are already being manufactured and deployed on large scale across the world. These turbines convert the force of the wind into electricity. For instance, in the US, the Biden Administration estimates that Morro Bay, central California and Humboldt, Northern California wind turbines could generate electricity that would be able to power 1.6 million homes (Davenport C. May 2021).

Despite the rise in popularity of renewable energy technologies, wind power still needs a backup plan. This is because the wind is variable by nature. The wind industry thus has to consider backup plans such as connection to an electricity grid, integrating other electricity-producing systems, and storage systems such as batteries. For sustainability, the wind industry should design systems that have sufficient storage capacity to cover the periods when wind supply cannot meet the demand level. This will ensure the output is always available.

When considering wind energy technology as an energy source, it’s important to know the strength and weaknesses that exist. A wind energy system is advantageous because it is simple and robust with a lifetime of over 15 years. It means that once the system is set and running, no major new investments will be needed in 15 years. Wind energy systems are automatic in their operation, thus low maintenance is required. Besides, it requires no fuel which does not only save you from additional cost but also its low impact on the environment as compared to other energy sources such as fossil fuels. On the other hand, wind energy weaknesses that might hinder its development include: site-specific, wind turbines require suitable sites with plenty of wind force throughout the year, variable power, and its high initial cost (this might impede its development in developing countries). Wind energy will only be viable if the potential market is large enough to support its investment. Cranage and transportation costs of wind turbines for installation in remote and suitable areas may also prove to be a challenge.  

Having considered the strengths and weaknesses of wind power, the population(s) should consider the type of wind technology that suits them to minimize the drawbacks that may be there. And in the long run, the benefits that come with wind energy including mitigation of climate change can then be fully harnessed. The grid-connected system should be selected for supplementing main power supplies; Stand-alone, battery charging for small home systems, small commercial systems, water pumping, telecommunications and navigation aids; Stand-alone, autonomous diesel for commercial systems, remote settlements, mini-grid systems; and water pumping for drinking water supply, irrigation pumping, sea-salt production and dewatering.

Reference

Coral Davenport, May 26, 2021. A renewable energy ‘breakthrough’ The New York Times