Basics of Wind Energy: Did you know the terms?
March 07, 2024

If you are interested in renewable energy, then you have probably heard about wind energy. But what exactly is wind energy? And what are all those unfamiliar or familiar terms you keep hearing about? Don't worry, we have got you covered. Here is some of the most common wind energy terminology explained:

Wind turbine A wind turbine is a device that converts wind energy into electrical energy. It consists of a rotor, a nacelle (the housing that contains the generator, gearbox, and other components), and a tower (the structure that supports the rotor and nacelle).

Rotor The rotor is part of the wind turbine that converts the energy in the wind into rotational energy. It consists of two or three blades that are shaped like airfoils. When the wind blows, the blades spin around a central hub, which is connected to the generator.

Generator The generator is part of the wind turbine that converts the rotational energy from the rotor into electrical energy. It works by using electromagnetic induction to produce an electric current.

Pitch control Pitch control is a system that adjusts the angle of the blades to control the speed of the rotor. When the wind speed increases, the blades are turned so that they generate less lift, which slows down the rotor. When the wind speed decreases, the blades are turned so that they generate more lift, which speeds up the rotor.

Yaw control Yaw control is a system that adjusts the orientation of the rotor so that it faces the wind. It uses a sensor and a motor to turn the nacelle and rotor assembly to the correct position.

Cut-in speed The cut-in speed is the wind speed at which the wind turbine begins to generate electricity. This speed is typically around 3-4 m/s (7-9 mph).

Cut-out speed The cut-out speed is the wind speed at which the wind turbine stops generating electricity to protect itself from damage. This speed is typically around 25 m/s (56 mph).

Capacity factor The capacity factor is the ratio of the actual energy produced by a wind turbine over a period of time to the maximum energy it could have produced if it had operated at full capacity for that same period. It is a measure of how efficiently the wind turbine is being used.

Wind farm A wind farm is a group of wind turbines that are located in the same area and connected to the same electrical grid. Wind farms are typically built in areas with high wind speeds, such as coastal regions or mountain passes.

Offshore wind farm An offshore wind farm is a wind farm that is located in the ocean. Offshore wind farms can take advantage of the stronger and more consistent winds that are found over the ocean.

Now you have the basic information and we hope this rundown of wind energy terminology has been helpful. The next time you hear someone talking about wind turbines, you will know exactly what they are talking about! To stay updated follow TESUP!