Wind energy is simply the act of harnessing the wind to generate electricity. A turbine is used to capture the wind and this in turn powers an electrical generator. In essence, wind power converts kinetic energy (wind) to mechanical energy. Increasingly, wind turbines are being employed in residential situations; however, on a commercial scale, the best locations for generating wind energy are those that experience both powerful and continuous winds.

Harnessing wind to generate electricity is certainly not a new invention. It has been over five decades since the first wind turbines began operating. Throughout history, however, humans have been capturing the power of the wind for more than 5,000 years. Originally used to pump water on farms and for grinding materials (e.g. in mills), wind power is now being used to generate electricity.

Proposed wind farms are on the rise all over the world. In 2008, the countries with the largest quantities of wind power were: the U.S.A.; Germany; Spain; and China. In fact, wind energy is employed in more than 70 countries throughout the world.

Environmental Benefits of Wind Power

Because the actual process of electricity generation using wind does not produce carbon dioxide - the leading greenhouse gas contributor - it is commonly suggested that this is one of the most environmentally-friendly methods for creating electricity. Apart from the environmental benefits of low greenhouse gas production, the creation of electricity using wind does not require water - an additional benefit, especially in areas where water is scarce.

There is no denying that wind power is one of the most environmentally-friendly methods on the planet for producing electricity. Wind is an infinite resource and no amount of using the supply will cause it to deplete. Wind is actually produced by the sun's irregular heating of the earth's atmosphere. This is further enhanced by the earth's rough landscape and its rotation.

Despite the obvious benefits of wind power, there are also concerns and opponents.

Wind Power: Suggested Concerns and Issues

• Noise and Health Concerns. One area of concern is that the noise associated with the operation of a wind farm will impact the health of surrounding residents and employees. The suggested health impacts have been referred to as 'Wind Turbine Syndrome'. To date, however, there have been a number of credible studies performed to research the validity of this syndrome. The findings demonstrate that there are no harmful impacts due to noise from wind farms. The suggested 'Wind Turbine Syndrome' was found to be based upon flawed research.
• Ground Pulsation. Certain critics believe that ground vibrations resulting from wind power can impact upon an individual's health. Research shows that this is another false accusation.
• Variability. Another argument against using wind power is that there is no guarantee of its consistency.
• Environmental Impact of Infrastructure. Another concern over wind power is that - although it might not produce carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases during operation - there are other environmental impacts associated with the construction of the farms.
• Impact to Wildlife. Perhaps the largest environmental concern of the wind farm is that of the impact to bird migration paths. There is certainly evidence to suggest that wind turbines negatively impact bird population; however, there are also technological advances (such as radar) that are being implemented to reduce such impacts.
• Aesthetics. Some people consider wind farms to be an eyesore.
• Capacity. Although wind power is certainly an invaluable source of energy generation, enormously sized wind farms are required to produce enough electricity for entire towns/cities.

Despite all the concerns and issues over wind power, there is no one reason powerful enough to detract from developing this powerful source of energy generation. This is evidenced by the fact that wind farms are on the increase in today's society. From invalid research to mythology, wind power certainly has its fair share of opponents. Ultimately, however, the fact is that wind power is one of the most environmentally-friendly methods of energy generation on the planet and, as a result, will always be favored as such.