Wind Energy Key Terms

Discover the benefits of renewable wind energy to the environment through important key terms

Wind-energy firms use large steel machines called wind turbines, along with heat from the sun, to convert wind into electricity, making it a greener way for businesses to use energy for various practical activities. Temperature differences and other factors such as mountain winds and sea breezes generate the wind power that converts into energy. Wind energy has become more popular in recent years because it does not leave waste and pollution, and it doesn’t consume any of Earth’s natural resources such as oil or coal. Wind-energy terminology helps businesses understand the basics and take advantage of this clean source of electricity.

Wind turbine

Wind-turbine systems are steel structures that deliver power to businesses and homes through utility power lines. Two designs exist: horizontal axis and vertical axis. Components of a wind turbine are a generator, a rotor, a drive train, a tower and electronic cables and connections.
Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy page.

Nacelle

The nacelle is the enclosure that houses the drive train, the generator, the rotor and other parts of the wind turbine.

Anemometer

An anemometer is an instrument that is used to measure wind speeds, pressure and velocity.

Community wind

Community wind is the name given to a wind energy project that is managed by a local community. Groups that may own a community wind project include farmers, business owners, electric cooperatives and universities. These local projects generate wind energy from a single turbine or a wind farm, and they help save money and energy for the community.

Distributed generation

Distributed generation, also called distributed energy, uses technology to deliver solar and wind power for on-site use.
U.S. Department of Energy offers information on distributed energy and technology.

Kilowatt hours

Kilowatt hours refer to the amount of energy consumed per hour. One kilowatt unit equals 1,000 watts.
Union of Concerned Scientists explains how kilowatts apply to wind energy.

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