The Energy Matrix

While scientists have not yet found a way to harness the ocean’s energy, there is evidence that wind power is the wave of the future. At least, Google seems to think so, having invested 38.8 million dollars in two wind farms in North Dakota back in May. Wind farmscollections of wind turbines in the same locationare being used around the world to generate energy. The two in North Dakota generate 169.5 megawatts of powerenough energy to light nearly 55,000 homes.The farms are designed by General Electric Co. Another is being constructed at Lake Erie, utilizing new technology like magnetic rings to power the blades and a lighter weight due to carbon fibers. Worldwide, GE has installed more than 13,500 turbines. Farms make economical sense because the largest turbine can only generate 4.0 megawatts. Currently, wind energy is not feasible in all locations, however. Apart from the actual speed and quantity of wind, considerations also include how easy it will be to lay transmission lines, the cost of installation and land acquisition, the environmental effects of construction, and more. Wind power density (WPD) is a value which combines all of this data into one easy-to-understand value.Current predictions suggest that Asia will be the wind power leader by 2014. Worldwide, wind power capacity will grow 447 gigawatts by that time. This growth will be bolstered by new designs which will make wind power in lower-density spots more productive. New wind turbine models will also make it easier for consumers to collect data on wind collection. The upcoming years could see alternative companies like Enercon, Alstom Wind, Gamesa, and Siemens Energy rivaling GE for dominance in the wind power industry.

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