Conclusion

In conclusion, a wind turbine is a machine that converts the wind kinetic energy into electricity. The major components of a wind turbine are: the rotor, the gearbox, the generator, the control and protection system, the tower and the foundation. Wind turbines are classified into two types of category: horizontal axis wind turbine and vertical axis wind turbine. The major advantage for a HAWT is the high efficiency it has; the disadvantage is the maintenance and repair at high altitude. The advantage of a VAWT is that the wind can come from any direction; the disadvantage is the height limitations. Aerodynamically, the wind turns the rotor blades of the HAWT because of the pressure differential between the top and the bottom of the airfoil. For the VAWT, it is the drag that acts on the blades and turns the rotor blades. Today, wind power is economically competitive compared to traditional energy because the cost of wind turbines is getting cheaper because of technology advancement and government incentives. It also creates jobs and generates extra personal and tax income. Wind energy is also a renewable and pollution-free energy which can help us reduce the emissions of greenhouse gases. I believe that wind energy can become an important asset to solve climate change and global warming issues in the future.