Why Wind Energy is Cleaner and Safer for Electricity Generation

If you’ve ever asked yourself “how does wind energy work?”, you’re not alone. While most Americans recognize that wind energy is an important and growing part of the electricity generation industry, a vast majority of them do not understand exactly how that electricity is produced. It’s important to understand, however, because seeing the energy industry in context can help you make better energy decisions and even improve your lifestyle.

Let’s start by looking at traditional means of generating electricity. Coal-produced electricity is responsible for the vast majority of energy supply in the United States today. Essentially, coal-based power plants use heated coals to turn water into steam, which then accelerates a turbine that produces electricity. The impact of the coal burning is the central problem—since coal is a fossil fuel, when it burns, it has a number of lasting effects. Carbon dioxide is released into the air, which accumulates in the atmosphere and culminates in a greenhouse effect. Coal byproducts have also been linked to instances of acid rain.

Wind power, on the other hand, cuts out that first step entirely. Instead of burning something to generate steam, wind power relies on the power of the moving turbine alone to generate electricity. Positioned to take advantage of the natural momentum of wind, these large turbines move on the whims of nature and produce the same electricity you get from coal.

Overall, wind power is much safer and more sustainable than traditional coal-based power. The trick is finding a way to use it as cost efficiently.

For more energy industry updates and information related to how to save money on electricity, keep reading the Star Energy Partners blog.