Renaissance for wind power

Journal Article · Thu Oct 01 04:00:00 EDT 1981 · Environment; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1080/00139157.1981.9928751· OSTI ID:5764023

Flavin, C

Wind research and development during the 1970s and recent studies showing wind to be a feasible source of both electrical and mechanical power are behind the rapid expansion of wind energy. Improved technology should make wind energy economical in most countries having sufficient wind and appropriate needs. A form of solar energy, winds form a large pattern of global air circulation because the earth's rotation causes differences in pressure and oceans cause differences in temperature. New development in the ancient art of windmill making date to the 1973 oil embargo, but wind availability must be determined at local sites to determine feasibility. Whether design features of the new technology and the concept of large wind farms will be incorporated in national energy policies will depend on changing attitudes, acceptance by utilities, and the speed with which new information is developed and disseminated. 44 references, 6 figures. (DCK)

• Research Organization: Worldwatch Inst., Washington, DC
• OSTI ID: 5764023
• Journal Information: Environment; (United States), Journal Name: Environment; (United States) Vol. 23:8; ISSN ENVTA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

17 WIND ENERGY
170000* -- Wind Energy
29 ENERGY PLANNING, POLICY, AND ECONOMY
299003 -- Energy Planning & Policy-- Unconventional Sources & Power Generation-- Other-- (-1989)
ENERGY SOURCE DEVELOPMENT
ENERGY SOURCES
POWER
RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCES
RESOURCE ASSESSMENT
RESOURCE POTENTIAL
SURVEYS
WIND POWER