Description of a wind turbine

A wind turbine converts some of the kinetic energy of moving air into electrical energy. Wind turns the blades, which rotate a rotor connected directly or through a gearbox to a generator.

How it works

The turbine’s control systems orient it toward the wind and adjust blade pitch to manage output and protect equipment. Electricity is then conditioned and connected to a local grid or other power system.

Example or application

A horizontal-axis turbine typically has three blades on a tower. Wind speed, rotor size, air density, turbine design, and operating limits all affect power production.

Scope and limits

A turbine cannot capture all wind energy, and output changes with weather. Real projects also involve land, wildlife, grid, maintenance, and community considerations.

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