Kandahr university

Engineering faculty
Civil Department

A report on wind
Energy
Feb 2023

By:
Name: Javid Ahmad
F/name: Roy Mohammad
Att#: 23th
Dep: Civil Engineering

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 A Report on wind Energy – Feb 2023

Table of Contents
1. Abstract ..................................................................................................................................................................... 3
2. INTRODUCTION ......................................................................................................................................................... 4
2.1. Wind: ................................................................................................................................................................. 4
2.2. Wind Energy: ..................................................................................................................................................... 4
2.3. Wind Turbines: .................................................................................................................................................. 4
3. Literature review ....................................................................................................................................................... 5
3.1. How wind turbines work: .................................................................................................................................. 5
3.2. Types of wind turbine: ...................................................................................................................................... 5
3.3. Sizes of Wind Turbines: ..................................................................................................................................... 6
3.4. Structure of wind Turbines: .............................................................................................................................. 7
4. Electric Industry: ....................................................................................................................................................... 8
5. Wind energy’s Benefits and Government Actions .................................................................................................... 9
5.1. Environmental Impacts ..................................................................................................................................... 9
5.2. Economic Impacts ............................................................................................................................................. 9
5.3. Renewable Electricity production tax credit (PTC) ......................................................................................... 10
6. Pros and Cons of Wind Energy ................................................................................................................................ 10
6.1. Advantages of Wind Energy ............................................................................................................................ 10
6.1.1. Free Fuel.................................................................................................................................................. 10
6.1.2. Reduces Our Dependence of Fossil Fuels ............................................................................................... 10
6.2. Disadvantages of Wind Power ........................................................................................................................ 10
6.2.1. Dangerous to some wildlife .................................................................................................................... 10
6.2.2. NOISE:...................................................................................................................................................... 11
7. Wind Energy’s Future:............................................................................................................................................. 12
8. References .............................................................................................................................................................. 13

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 1. Abstract
As a clean and renewable energy source, wind energy is seen by many as a way to partially solve our
nations’ energy crisis. With U.S. wind energy generation capacity growing by 45% in 2007, wind turbines are
sprouting up on wind farms all over the country.
This report presents an overview of the wind energy industry. It begins with an explanation for how
wind energy works. Then an analysis of the current state of the electric industry is presented, along with a
discussion of wind energy’s benefits that have led to the current expansion. Steps in building a wind farm and
local issues that often arise are explored. the report concludes with a discussion of potential future
developments in wind energy.
Some highlights of the report are:
 Wind is a form of Energy. Winds are caused by the uneven heating of the atmosphere by the
sun the irregularities of the earth’s surface and the rotation of the earth.
 There are two types of modern wind turbines: horizontal-axis and vertical-axis.
 The average utility size wind turbine being installed today is 1.5 megawatts(MW)
 Coal is the leading source for electric generation (49%), followed by natural gas (20%) and
nuclear power (19%). Wind energy accounted for just over 1% of total generation in 2007.
 U.S. wind energy generation capacity grew to over 16800 MW in 2007. Over 5200 MW were
added in 2007 alone, which equaled 45% growth.
 the benefit of wind energy includes a reduction of greenhouse gases and significant economic
benefit to local communities.
 Government support of the wind energy industry includes tax credits, research funding,
energy standards, and development grants and loans. The most important government
program is the renewable production tax credit.
 Some local issues that often arise with the development of a wind farm include affects on
wildlife , noise created by the wind farm, the aesthetics, and shadow flicker

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 2. INTRODUCTION
2.1. Wind:
Wind is the air flow that consists of many gasses in the atmosphere of the earth. According to it’s mechanism
wind is the phenomenon of Air moving from the equatorial regions toward the poles, as light warm air rises toward the
atmosphere, while heavier cool Air descends toward the Earth’s surface. Therefore, cooler air moves from the north
pole toward the equator and warms up on its way, while already warm air rises toward the north poles and gets cooler
and heavier, until it starts sinking back down toward the poles. The creator factors of this phenomenon are Rotation of
the Earth, Uneven heating of the atmosphere by the sun and the irregularities of the earth’s surface. Wind is a sustainable
energy source since it is Renewable, widely distributed, and plentiful. Thus, the wind flow is used by the humans for
many purposes such as Water pumping, sailing, Grain milling and generating electricity. (Kumar, sumathi, & Surekha,
2019)

Figure 2.1 : Air flow direction

2.2. Wind Energy:

Wind energy is a renewable energy that harnesses energy generated by wind through the use of wind mills that
convert it into electricity. Windmills that are used for electricity generation are called wind turbines. Wind turbines first
emerged more than a century ago. Following the invention of electric generator in 1830s, Engineers started attempting
to harness wind energy to produce electricity. Wind power generation took place in the United Kingdom and the United
States in 1887 and 1888, but modern wind power is considered to have been first developed in Denmark, where
horizontal-axis wind turbines built in 1891 and a 22.8-meter wind turbine began operation in 1897. The modern wind
power sector emerged in the 1980s.Wind power has grown rapidly since 2000. Global installed wind generation capacity
–both onshore and offshore- has increased by a factor of 98 in the past two decades, jumping from 7.5 GW in 1997 to
733 GW by 2018 according to IRENAs data. (Kumar, sumathi, & Surekha, 2019)

2.3. Wind Turbines:

wind turbines, as machines were used by ancient civilization (Persian, Romans, etc.) mostly as vertical
axle windmills with several blades. The primary use was to grind corn and wheat and for water irrigation
system. Later on, windmills were developed mostly in the Netherlands, Denmark and Scotland for grinding
mills. The first windmill that produced electricity (DC) was constructed by professor James Blyth in Scotland,
Glasgow in 1887, at Anderson’s collage. Nowadays modern wind turbines have the capacity of 2-3 (MW),
which can produce over 6 million (KW) of electricity every year. That’s enough to meet the electricity demand
of around 1500 average households. (Association, 2009)

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 3. Literature review
Below is an explanation of how electricity is generated by wind turbines put forth by the U.S Department of
energy’s wind and hydropower Technologies Program.

3.1. How wind turbines work:

A wind turbines convert the kinetic energy in the wind mechanical power, this mechanical power can be converted
by a generator to 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 produce electricity. The wind turns the blades, which spin the shaft
which connects to a generator and makes electricity. (Kumar, sumathi, & Surekha, 2019)

Figure 3.1: shows the process of harvesting energy from turbine.

3.2. Types of wind turbine:

Modern wind turbines fall into to two basic groups: The horizontal-axis variety, as shown in the photo, and the
vertical-axis design like the eggbeater-style Darrius model, named after its French inventor. Horizontal-axis, wind
turbines typically have either have two or three blades. These three-bladed wind turbines are operated “upwind” with
the blades facing into the wind. (varner, 2008)

Horizontal axis turbine vertical axis turbine

figure 3.2: types of wind turbines.

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3.3. Sizes of Wind Turbines:
Utility scale turbines range in size from 100 kilowatts to as large as several megawatts. Larger turbines
are grouped together in win farms, which provide bulk power to the electrical grid. The average size wind
turbine being installed at wind farms currently is approximately 1.5 MW. (Kumar, sumathi, & Surekha, 2019)
Single small turbines below 100 kilowatts are used for homes, telecommunications dishes, or water
pumping. Small turbines are sometimes used in connection with diesel generators, batteries, and photovoltaic
system. These systems are called hybrid wind system and are typically used in remote, off-grid locations,
where a connection to the utility grid id not available. (Association, 2009)

Figure 3.3: shows the sizes of wind turbines in recent past and future.

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3.4. Structure of wind Turbines:
The diagram of contents and their description:

Anemometer:
Measures the wind speed and transmits wind speed data to the controller.

Brake:
A disc brake which can be applied mechanically, electrically or hydraulically to stop the rotor in emergencies.

Blades:
Most turbines have either two or three blades. Wind blowing over the blades causes the blades to “lift” and rotate.

Controller:
The controller starts up the machine at wind speeds of about 8 to 16 miles per hour (mph) and shuts off the
machine at about 55 mph. turbines do not operate at wind speeds above about 55 mph because they might be
damaged by the high winds.

Gear box:
Gears connect the low-speed shaft to the high-speed shaft and increase the rotational speeds from about 30 to 60
rotations per minute (rpm) to about 1000 to 1800 rpm. The rotational speed require by most generators to produce
electricity. The gear box is a costly (and heavy) part of the wind turbine and engineers are exploring “direct-
drive” generators that operate at lower rotational speeds and don’t need gear box.

Generator:
Usually an off-the shelf induction generator that produces 60-cycle AC electricity.

High-speed shaft:
Drives the generator

Low-speed shaft:
The rotor turns the low-speed shaft at about 30 to 60 rotations per minute.

Nacelle:
The nacelle sits atop the tower and contains the gear box, low- and high- speed shafts, generator, controller, and brake.
Some nacelles are large enough for a helicopter to land on.

Pitch:
Blades are turned or pitched out the wind to control the rotor speed and keep the rotor from turning in winds
that are too high or too low to produce electricity.

Rotor:
The blades and the hub together are called the rotor.

Tower:
Towers are made from tubular steel, concrete, or steel lattice. Because wind speed increase with height, taller
towers enable turbines to capture more energy and generate more electricity.

Wind direction:
This is an “up wind” turbine, so called because it operates facing into wind. Other turbines are design to run
“down wind” facing away from the wind.

wind vane:
measures wind direction and communicates with the yaw drive to orient the turbine properly with respect to the
wind.

Yaw drive:
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 Upwind turbines face into the wind; the yaw drive is use to keep the rotor facing into the wind as the wind
direction changes. Downwind turbines don’t require a yaw drive; the wind blows the rotor down wind.

Yaw motor:
Powers the yaw drive.

Figure 3.4: shows the structure of wind turbine.

4. Electric Industry:
This section of the report will examine the current state of the electricity generation in the United States and the
growth in the wind energy sector in recent years. As highlighted in chart 1, electricity generated through coal burning
power plants was the most abundant source of electricity in the United States in 2006. Coal accounted for 1.99 billion
MWH (megawatt hours) or just below 50% of all electricity generated. Coal was followed by natural gas (20.0%) and
nuclear power (19.4%). (Energy information Administration, 2006)

Renewable energy sources accounted for 379 million MWH or 9.4% of all generation. At 283 million MWH
hydroelectric power plants accounted for the lion’s share of this amount. Electricity generated from biomass was the
next biggest renewable energy source at 55 million MWH. Wind energy accounted for 27 million MWH, or just less
than 1% of all generation. Geothermal and solar power makes up the remainder. (Energy information Administration,
2006)

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 ELECTRIC GENERATION BY SOURCE
(2006)
Coal
49%

solar/PV…
hydroelectric
7%
Renewable Wind
9% 1%

Biomass
0.7%
geothermal
Natural gass 0.3%
Nuclear
20% 20%
Other Electric Generation by Source
2% (Thousand Megawatt hours)
Coal 1990926 Biomass 54759
Natural gas 813044 Geothermal 14568
Nuclear 787219 Hydroelectric 282688
Other 94401 Solar/PV 508
Source: Energy Information Administration Renewables 379111 Wind 26589

Chart 4.1 electric generation by source, 2006

5. Wind energy’s Benefits and Government Actions

Wind energy has expanded greatly in recent years. This expansion is due largely due to political backing brought
forth by both federal and state governments. Governments have seen wind energy as an energy source that is both
environmentally friendly and as a way to revitalize economies in rural areas that have been lagging in recent decades.
This section will discuss the environmental and economic impacts of wind energy and the legislative efforts at both the
federal level and in the state of Illinois that have encouraged this expansion. (Energy information Administration, 2006)

5.1. Environmental Impacts

Wind energy is considered economically friendly because it is a renewable resource. Renewable resources are
defined by Webster’s as any natural resource (such as wood or solar energy) that can be replenished naturally with the
passage of time. The AWEA points out that wind energy generation doesn’t involve the use of mining, drilling,
transportation of fuel or water usage and doesn’t generate radioactive or other hazardous or polluting waste. It was also
estimated by the Midwest Independent System Operator (MISO) that release of approximately 1300 pounds of carbon
dioxide, a greenhouse gas, are avoided for every mega-watt-hour of wind generation. (yahyaoui, 2018)

5.2. Economic Impacts

The economic impacts of the building of a wind farm are felt both in the construction and operational phases of
the project. A case study by researchers at Northern Arizona University estimated the economic results of the
construction of wind farms of various sizes in two northern Arizona counties, Coconino County and Navajo County.
The case study found that economic activity increased by $10.29 - $12.43 million during the construction phase in
Coconino County and by $9.91 - $12.51 million in Navajo County. Economic activity would increase between $0.74
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and $1.00 million per year during the operation and maintenance phase in Coconino County. Navajo County was thought
to have increased activity of $1.24-$1.67 million per year. A median estimate of 142 and 152 additional jobs were
created during the construction phase, while fulltime equivalent jobs equaled 29 and 263. (yahyaoui, 2018)

5.3. Renewable Electricity production tax credit (PTC)

The Renewable Electricity Production Credit (PTC) is a per kilowatt-hour tax credit for electricity generated by
qualified energy resources. Enacted as part of the Energy Policy Act of 1992, the credit expired at the end of 2001, and
was subsequently extended in March 2002 as part of the Job Creation and Worker Assistance Act of 2002 (H.R. 3090).
The tax credit then expired at the end of 2003 and was not renewed until October 2004, as part of H.R. 1308, the Working
Families Tax Relief Act of 2004, which extended the credit through December 31, 2005. The Energy Policy Act of 2005
(H.R. 6) modified the credit and extended it through December 31, 2007. In December 2006, the credit was extended
for yet another year (through
December 31, 2008) by Section 201 of the Tax Relief and Health Care Act of 2006 (H.R. 6111). An extension
of the tax credit is currently being worked on but has not been able to pass in the U.S. Senate. (Energy information
Administration, 2006)

6. Pros and Cons of Wind Energy

Like all other forms of renewable energy wind energy has it’s fair share of pros and cons. Certain renewable
energies work better in different regions of the world for different reasons and circumstances. That’s why its important
for consumers to know which works best for their part of the country.

6.1. Advantages of Wind Energy

Harnessing wind to generate energy has its advantages and is an efficient option for many different parts of the
world since it doesn’t depend on direct sunlight exposure like solar energy.

6.1.1. Free Fuel

Since wind turbines themselves run strictly in the power of wind generated, there is no need for fuel. Once the
turbine is completely installed it doesn’t need to be fueled or connected to power to continue working. This also reduce
the overall cost to continue to run large-scale wind farms in comparison to other forms renewable energies, which may
require some energy costs.

6.1.2. Reduces Our Dependence of Fossil Fuels

Energy generated from fossil fuels not only contributes to climate change, but also running out the fuel
resources. As long as the sun heats the planet then there is an endless supply of wind. Furthermore, developing and
investing in technology that can only run on a finite resource that we may run out of our lifetime. Which is a terrible
waste.

6.2. Disadvantages of Wind Power

Although wind energy is a renewable, greener option of energy, it still has its disadvantages and limitations.

6.2.1. Dangerous to some wildlife

Wind turbines are known to pose a threat to the wildlife. Flying birds and bats whose habitats or migratory paths
could be injured or killed if they run into the blades that turn on the fanlike structure of wind turbines when they are
Spinning. Aside from the wildlife that flies through the air, wildlife on the ground may also affected by the noise
pollutions generated from whirring blades.

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 Figure 6.1: the danger of turbines for Birds.

6.2.2. NOISE:
Wind turbines can be quiet noisy which is why they are mostly found in very rural areas where most people
don’t live. Depending on the location of the turbine, such as offshore noise isn’t an ensue. With advancements in the
technology, newer deigns have been shown to reduce the noise complaints and have a much quieter presence. The wind
energy proponents claim that an operating modern wind farm at a distance of 750 to 1000 feet is no noisier than a kitchen
refrigerator. Industry studies estimate wind turbine noise levels to be around 45 decibels.

Figure 6.2: the loudness of wind turbine’s sound (decibels).

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6.2.2.1. Other Issues:
 Opponents claim wind turbines interfere with television and other communication signals.
 Wind farms depress home values

7. Wind Energy’s Future:

Wind energy’s future appear to be bright. Annual growth rates of almost 30% over the last five years indicate
that the industry has been growing by leaps and bounds. This growth could potentially be hindered if the production
Tax Credit is not renewed for 2009. Industry participants view the future as unlimited. Julius Seiner, CEO of Games a
USA, declared that ‘’ the future horizons are truly limitless in terms of wind energy development in the US ‘’ (Omer,
2010)
The industry continues to conduct research to make wind energy more efficient. Governments continue to
promote the industry through grants programs and subsidies. These efforts may lead to technological breaks in off-shore
wind energy and more efficient land –based wind energy, which may lead to greater energy independence and a
lessening affect on the environment by the American people. A recent study by the U.S. department of Energy found
that a scenario where wind energy would achieve a 20% contribution to the U.S. electricity supply is feasible. (Energy
information Administration, 2006)

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8. References
Association, E. W. (2009). Wind energy- The facts. London: earthscn.

Energy information Administration. (2006). Electric generation. New York.

Kumar, L. a., sumathi, S., & Surekha, P. (2019). solar pv and wind energy conservation system. banglore, karnataka,
India: springer.

Omer, A. K. (2010). Energy Harvesting . washington DC: CRC press.

varner, b. L. (2008). report on wind energy. los angeles: comission on government forcasting.

yahyaoui, I. (2018). Advances in renewable energy. Bristol: jonathan simpson .

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