5 Robust Reasons Wind Power Should Be Our Future (and why it can't be)
The Rise of Wind Power
We've all seen them, often when we're driving down the motorway and look out at some distant field: the towering, white structures with propellers that aren't spinning as fast as we think they should. Why are they there and how do they work?
We are facing an energy crisis and, in an attempt to reduce our reliance on fosil fuels, we are looking to sustainable sources of energy. The UK isn't known for it's glorious weather so wind power seems a good solution.
Wind power creates energy by harnessing the kinetic energy of the wind and converting it into electricity, typically using wind turbines (the aforementioned, sometimes-argued-to-be-unsightly things) strategically located on hills, open plains, or offshore areas
The UK has the largest offshore wind farm in the world, which is located off the coast of Yorkshire. Electricity generation from wind power in the UK has increased by 715% from 2009 to 2020.
Could it be the Solution?
- The reason we love it is obviously because it is sustainable: as long as the sun continues to shine, there will be wind. Electricity is generated without emitting greenhouse gases or air pollutants, contributing to cleaner air and reduced carbon footprint. This means it helps mitigate climate change.
- Over the years, the cost of wind energy has decreased, making it increasingly competitive with conventional energy sources. Advances in technology have improved efficiency and lowered installation costs.
- Turnover from wind energy was nearly £6 billion in 2019. Just consider the job creation! We have a requirement for more skilled jobs in manufacturing, installation, maintenance, and research and development (at the moment, too many... we have a skills shortage!).
- Wind projects take less time to implement than some other large-scale energy infrastructure projects, helping to meet energy demands more rapidly.
- Since we're creating our own energy, we are less dependent on fossil fuel imports, contributing to our energy independence and energy security.
The Fatal Flaw
The biggest problem is that wind is intermittent and variable, meaning electricity generation is not constant. This necessitates backup power sources or energy storage systems to ensure a stable power supply.
Then you have all the other complaints...
- Some people find wind turbines visually unappealing, which can affect tourism and house prices.
- They can produce low-level noise, which can lead to opposition to wind farm installations in certain areas.
- Wind farms require significant land, therefore their construction can disrupt local ecosystems and wildlife habitats. Have you considered the number of bird and bat fatalities due to collisions with turbine blades?
- While the long-term operational costs are relatively low, the initial investment in wind power infrastructure can be high, making financing a barrier for some projects.
Final Thoughts
Like most sustainable energy sources, wind power has some huge advantages... but it's not perfect. Despite these issues, we clearly need it. You can read more about it at ITP Energised and on the BBC's website.
Until then, the search continues for a reliable renewable energy resource that is the full package!
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