Energy: The Advantages and Disadvantages of Wind

Question 1

Advantage: Infinite and Sustainable

Answer 1

Wind is an infinite and sustainable source of energy.

Question 2

Advantage : Consistent wind, exposed or offshore

Answer 2

It is most effective in countries with consistent wind and either exposed uplands or offshore areas, making it suited to Scotland’s landscape.

Question 3

Advantage : Independent production of energy

Answer 3

Wind allows Scotland to be independent in terms of the production of energy. This reduces the need for reliance on imports of fuel

Question 4

Advantage: Expansion of Independence (example mark)

Answer 4

The Aberdeen Offshore Wind Farm on average generates enough electricity to supply 80,000 homes a year

Question 5

Advantage: Stronger in Winter

Answer 5

Wind tends to be stronger in winter when demand for electricity is greater.

Question 6

Advantage: Clean energy source

Answer 6

Wind is a clean energy source which means it doesn’t contribute to CO2 emissions.

Question 7

Advantage: Expansion on clean energy source- net zero by 2045 and Paris Agreement

Answer 7

This isn’t only beneficial for contributing towards Scotlands goal of becoming net zero by 2045 but also contributes towards the Paris Agreement to reduce emissions

Question 8

Advantage: Surplus in Energy

Answer 8

When there is a surplus in energy this can be sold for profit in other countries.

Question 9

Disadvantage: Irregular or intermittent

Answer 9

Wind power can be irregular or intermittent. For example, during high pressure, there can be periods of no wind or very low wind speeds.

Question 10

Disadvantage: Expansion of irregular or intermittent- no or very little power

Answer 10

This leaves wind turbines motionless, producing no or very little power and may struggle to meet energy demands.

Question 11

Disadvantage: Loss of energy during transport

Answer 11

The location of wind turbines does mean that some energy is lost transporting electricity to areas of higher demand (may payne?)

Question 12

Disadvantage: Too high wind speeds

Answer 12

Any wind speed in excess of 25m/s is too dangerous for the wind turbine and so it is shut down

Question 13

Disadvantage: Unable to store

Answer 13

Unlike fossil fuels, wind energy can’t currently be stored. So when there’s an overproduction turbines may be switched off.