Wind

A very durable energy source, wind is available everywhere
in the world.

Wind has been used through the ages to power mills, pumps and boats. About 30 years ago, people started using it to generate electricity.

The higher the better

Wind gives more energy at higher altitudes because it is less impeded by hills, trees and buildings. For this reason, wind power plants are often built in large open spaces such as fields, on the top of hills, or near the sea or offshore. To build wind power plants in woodland is a posibility which is gaining interest.

The best site

Once in operation, wind power plants have almost no impact on the environment. However, planning a new wind power plant involves many different interests. The site must provide strong, even winds – and the benefits of the energy produced must be carefully weighed against any impact on the local environment, the cultural landscape, and seafaring.

The future

Wind power will play a growing role in generating electricity. It has little environmental impact, and can be used all over the world. A growing number of governments have initiated wind energy development programmes. Nevertheless, wind energy remains considerably more expensive than other forms of energy.

Share of wind energy used in electricity generation: