The Pros and Cons of Wind Energy
Wind Can Power the Nation
Wind energy is the fastest-growing source of clean, renewable energy. Wind turbines spin in gusts of wind, rotating the fans, and powering turbines that are then sent to converters that are turned into usable energy to power our homes, businesses, and leisurely activities. With wind power, a substantial amount of energy can be easily produced with few man hours and relatively low overhead cost. There are, however, a couple of considerations for wind power. Effective as it is, there are some that are unconvinced that using wind power is the best use of technology for a greener planet.
Pro : Wind Energy Generates an Enormous Amount of Clean Energy
It is estimated that, like solar energy, wind energy can actually produce several times more power than what the entire human population actually needs. With that much energy flowing, no one would have to feel guilty about taking a few extra minutes of hot water, leaving the light on, or cranking up the air conditioning. While the cost of powering your home won’t likely be free, it will be much more accessible, and less expensive.
Con : Wind Turbines, though Cheap to Operate, Are not Cheap to Build
Heavy equipment transporting special materials crafted by skilled craftspeople is about as expensive as it sounds. A wind turbine large enough to power a large home can cost as much as $80,000, way out of the budget of most people. Take into consideration that wind farms are usually comprised of 50 or more turbines. The cost of wind farms is very high, and few people are willing to make the upfront investment.
Pro : Wind Energy is Renewable
That windstorm that you dread because you’re concerned with trees and debris might help you power the television you’ll be watching to get through it. Wind energy comes directly from the wind – the same wind that we do nothing to get goes through wind turbines to power us. Wind comes from a combination of air currents from mountains and sea currents from oceans, moving together to move clouds, sway trees, and power our homes. Gravity from the sun and moon also comes into play, making wind energy fully and completely renewable.
Con : Wind is not Steady, or Reliable
Perhaps even less fortunate than the upfront cost is the simple fact that wind itself is not reliable, and only sometimes predictable. If you’re able to invest in wind energy, it is also wise to consider a battery, or generator to store extra energy in the event that you end up using more energy than expected, or you find yourself without even a little breeze to keep energy flowing in your home.
Pro : Wind Energy Reduces Energy Costs
When some, most, or all of your energy comes from wind turbines, you will see lower energy bills. It is cheaper to supply homes with clean energy than it is to power homes that rely solely on the traditional electric grid that relies on coal, or other greenhouse-gas producing sources of energy.
Con : Wind Turbines Have Been Shown to Endanger Wildlife
While some wind farms are built on existing farms, most wind farms and stand-alone wind turbines are built on undeveloped land. The undeveloped land is almost always home to a variety of animals, animals who are then displaced by the wind turbines. Spinning wind turbines have killed hundreds of birds and bats over the years, causing anger and frustration from conservationists and animal rights activists. Wind power is a great and powerful resource, but like all energy sources, it does have its drawbacks.
