Wind power is the second-largest source of renewable energy that does not produce greenhouse gases, surpassed only by hydroelectric power. Many countries are rapidly...
Study indicates that land surface temperatures have warmed in the vicinity of large wind farms in west-central Texas, especially at night,
Scientists Find Night-Warming Effect
Over Large Wind Farms in Texas
Wind turbines interact with atmospheric boundary layer near the surface
Large wind farms in certain areas in the United States appear to affect local land surface temperatures, according to a paper published today in the journal Nature Climate Change. The study, led by Liming Zhou, an atmospheric scientist at the State University of New York- (SUNY) Albany, provides insights about the possible effects of wind farms. The results could be important for developing efficient adaptation and management strategies to ensure long-term sustainability of wind power.
"This study indicates that land surface temperatures have warmed in the vicinity of large wind farms in... More »
Wind Power: The World's Second-Largest Source of Greenhouse Gas-Free EnergyLast Updated on 2010-11-08 00:00:00
Wind power is the second-largest source of renewable energy that does not produce greenhouse gases, surpassed only by hydroelectric power. Many countries are rapidly constructing wind power facilities, and within a few decades, wind power should provide about 4% of global electricity. As much as 72,000 gigawatts (GW) of wind power might be commercially feasible worldwide, many times the current total energy demand. 
Winds derive from temperature differences between the Tropics and the Poles, between land and sea, and between Earth’s surface and upper atmosphere that produce pressure differentials among air masses. Electric power generated from wind is proportional to its speed (velocity) to the third power. Most potential sites for wind turbines are located just offshore, where land/sea temperature differentials drive winds and where open water presents few... More »