What is wind power?

Wind power is a type of renewable energy created using the rotation of wind turbines. It’s one of a few ways that kinetic motion can be used to produce electricity. 

How does wind power work?   

Wind power, or wind energy, is created when the wind causes the blades on turbines to spin, which in turn causes a generator in the turbine to spin and create electricity. This is an example of kinetic motions being used to generate energy for consumption. 

Do wind turbines run on diesel?     

No, wind turbines do not run on diesel. Turbines rely on the wind to blow to spin their blades. They are designed such that they don’t need huge amounts of wind to spin, meaning they aren’t reliant on diesel to operate at all. 

Do wind turbines kill birds?  

While there may be an occasional bird casualty due to wind turbines, it is a very small number in comparison to birds that are killed via other means. More birds are killed from flying into cell towers each year than wind turbines.  

When new wind farms are planned, part of this process involves ecological study of the site to make sure there will be minimal impact on local wildlife.  

Why do wind turbines have three blades?   

One reason they have three blades is to be balanced. Turbines with two or four blades will wobble more when rotating. Having three blades keeps the turbine stable when the wind is blowing, keeping them at their most efficient. 

Are wind turbine blades hollow?  

Yes, the blades are mostly hollow with a core installed for stability. Being hollow allows for the blades to be manipulated by the wind more easily; they can rotate with smaller winds. 

Can wind turbines be recycled?  

Wind turbines are mostly made of recyclable materials. When they reach the end of their operational life, most of the turbine can be recycled or repurposed. 

Which wind turbine design is the best?  

Wind turbines can be built either on a horizontal or vertical axis. The horizontal design is the design we see most commonly as it’s the most efficient and harnesses the most wind power.  

Where are wind turbines made?  

Globally there are many manufacturers and exporters of wind turbines and blades. Some of the most notable are in China, USA and India. 

How are wind turbines transported?  

Wind turbines are not transported after construction. The individual parts are moved between locations using special vehicles that can extend in order to carry them. 

Why do wind turbines sometimes not turn?  

Wind turbines are still sometimes for a variety of reasons. Most often it is because demand for energy isn’t consistent. When there are dips in the need for energy the turbines won’t spin so as not to produce unnecessary or wasted energy, particularly if they aren’t equipped with enough battery storage.  

Another reason they could be still is if they’re receiving maintenance work or in need of maintenance.  

Finally, wind turbines are sometimes still because there is too much or too little wind for them to safely operate. 

Find out more about our portfolio of offshore wind projects here.