WIND ENERGY
Sun-driven origin
About 2% of the sunlight striking the earth is converted into the kinetic energy of moving air called wind. The uneven absorption of the solar radiation by the earth’s surface causes differences of temperature, density and pressure which produce air movements at local, regional and global levels powered by wind energy. The kinetic energy of the wind can be harnessed by converting it into mechanical energy or electrical energy using suitable devices.
Historical uses
- As early as 4000 – 3500 BC, the first sailing ship and wind mills were developed by harnessing wind energy. The wind has been used to power ships, grind grains, pump water for irrigation and do other types of work
Modern turbines/farms
- In present times the greatest potential for using wind is for the production of electricity. Wind turbines, like wind mills are mounted on a tower to capture the most of the wind energy. Wind mills can be used to drive generators to producing electricity.
To produce electricity wind is used to turn the shaft of a turbine which is attached to a generator that produces electricity. Thus, wind turbines transform wind energy into mechanical power which can be used to generate electricity.
- Wind turbines can be used single or in clusters. When wind turbines occur in clusters they are called ‘wind farms’. Small wind turbines called aero generators and can be used to charge large batteries.
India’s global capacity
- Five nations – USA, Germany, Denmark, Spain and India – account for 80% of the world’s installed wind energy capacity.
| In 2025, India holds the 4th position globally in terms of installed wind power capacity. India’s wind energy capacity has more than doubled in the last decade, reaching 51.5 GW in May 2025 |