Pros and Cons of Wind Power

Wind power is basically converting the power of the wind into practical uses, such as electricity or other practical applications. This can be done by a home wind turbine, a wind mill, or a wind pump. Even a simple sail uses the power of the wind and uses it to propel the boat forward.

Here are the pros and cons of wind power:

One of the major pros of wind power is that it provides an unlimited alternative energy than the normal means used, such as coal, or other fossil fuels. Wind power is convenient because there is no direct effect on the environment like there is with fossil fuels. Fossil fuels have been proven to be one of the leading causes of global warming, due to the carbon it emits into the atmosphere. Global warming is causing much damage to the planet. By changing the climates across the world many species and natural phenomenon cannot exist, such as the ice cap, or animals that are sensitive to temperature.

Another advantage of wind power is that the home wind turbines themselves take up very little space, sure they are tall structures, but on the ground, there is still much space that can be used. These turbines, or mills can be taller that fifty feet, yet the ground below is still unscathed, meaning it may be used for activities such as farming. However it is not suggested to live under a turbine or a mill because they can get noisy at times. Also, wind mills and turbines come in a variety of sizes, which mean if you plan on getting one for personal urban use you may be able to find one that suits your available space.

However, there are also some disadvantages of wind power, such as the unpredictability of the winds. It may cost hundreds of dollars to put up, yet it may take months or even years to break even due to the constantly changing weather. Also many species of birds are attracted to strong winds, which may cause birds to senselessly fly too close to a wind turbine, which could prove possibly fatal; hundreds of birds die by wind turbines each year.

Pursuing this further, another con of wind power is that they may be damaged in a severe storm or harsh weather, seeing as how the turbines are made of metal they may also attract lightning during thunderstorms. The cost to replace or repair turbines can cost up to several thousands of dollars, which defeats the purpose of saving money and helping the environment.

Useful information home wind turbine:
http://ezinearticles.com/?Home-Wind-Turbine-Advantages-and-Applications&id=4387413

http://ezinearticles.com/?Home-Wind-Turbines---The-Green-Choice-For-Electricity&id=3418512