A Brief History of Wind Energy

Man has been harnessing the massive power of the wind for thousands of years. Wind energy has moved great ships and boats, pumped water, ground grain and powered forms of industrial machines for thousands of years. Windmills still pump water in many desolate locations, where electricity to feed a water pump is difficult to get.

Since the dawn of the industrial revolution, the role of wind power has been slowly diminishing, with mainly fossil fuels taking its place.

Now, with renewed emphasis on clean, alternative forms of energy, wind energy has blown back on the the scene in a big way, as a prime method to generate electricity. Wind turbines, large and small are filling in for traditional coal, oil and natural gas-fired power plants throughout the world. Even though wind-generated power in the U.S. is only about 1% of total power output, the interest is there for much more wind power.

New technology has allowed the modern windmills (wind turbines) to be used where it was impossible just a few years ago. Wind farms – vast land tracts containing hundreds (sometimes thousands) of 150 foot tall wind turbines have been running since the early 1980′s. When used correctly, the potential for efficient and cheap use of wind energy is great.

As energy prices rise worldwide, there has been renewed interest in local windmill-generated electricity, mini powerplants for individual homes, churches and schools. While the basic technology is not new, many new designs and ideas have emerged, providing the means to alternate electric production for the average homeowner. And, many utilities now will pay when excess power is directed back into the power grid.

Have you been thinking about supplementing your electrical usage with a windmill? Many windmill owners report a 50% to 90% reduction in electricity bills – although the savings can vary greatly depending on location, weather and other conditions.

It may be worth a look into using wind energy to help supply your power needs.