Abstract
This book begins with a history of wind power and the social impacts of both electricity and wind power from a historical perspective, a discussion of basic electrical terms, and a primer on the conversion of power in the wind to electricity. Much of the second half of the book is devoted to comparing wind energy to other forms of electric generation, both renewable and non-renewable sources. In order to have a true understanding of the impact of wind energy on society, one also has to have a thorough understanding of the impacts that other sources of electric generation have, such as fossil-fuelled plants or nuclear power plants. The comparison of electric generation sources includes a review of how such sources are typically utilized within the electric system, as well as the economic factors and environmental considerations that affect which resources utilities or operators of electric grids have to take into account. The authors conclude with a discussion of energy policies in the U.S., individual states, and foreign nations, how these policies influence the use of renewable energy, and what our future may hold in terms of energy supply and demand. Some highlights of this book are:
- Discusses the wind energy impacts on the environment, local economy, electric utilities, individuals and communities
- Provides a visual explanation of wind energy principles through tables, graphs, maps, illustrations and photographs
- Offers a comprehensive overview of the issues associated with the creation and use of wind energy
- Models chapters around an existing university curriculum
Spanning the broad range of environmental, financial, policy and other topics that define and determine the relationships between wind energy technology and our energy-dependent society, Wind Energy Essentials is a resource for students, universities, and the entire wind energy industry.
Table of Contents:
Impacts of Energy and Electricity on Society
The Basics of Electricity
Overview of Wind Energy and Other Sources of Electricity
Conversion of Power in the Wind to Electricity
The Wind Energy Development Process
Overview of Issues Faced by Wind Energy
Wind and Wildlife: Siting Issues and Challenges
Environmental and Ecological Impacts of Wind Energy on Humans: Public Health Issues
Environmental and Ecological Impacts of Wind Energy on Humans: Public and Workforce Safety Issues
Wind Energy's Impact on Aviation, Radar, and Telecommunications
Impact of Wind Energy on the Electric Grid
Non‐Wind Renewable Energy Sources Used to Meet Electricity Needs
Nonrenewable Energy Sources Used to Meet Electricity Needs
Energy Efficiency and Conservation: “Less Is More” and “Doing Without”
Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Siting and Permitting of Electric Generation Projects
Economics of Electricity Generation
Economic Impacts and Benefits of Wind Energy Projects and Other Sources of Electric Generation
Environmental Impacts and Economics of Offshore Wind Energy
State and National Energy Policies
Global Wind Energy Policy and Development
Wind Energy Workforce, Education, and Jobs
The Future of Electric Energy