renewable energy Flashcards
7 positives of wind power
Wind power is potentially an infinite and sustainable energy source.
The UK has a windy climate and large areas of exposed upland for example, Eaglesham Moor making it ideal for this type of energy generation.
Winds in Scotland can be strong enough to power the equivalent of all electricity needs for 1 day.
Where surplus is generated it can be sold/exported for profit.
Wind energy may help to reduce energy bills since power from onshore energy is cheaper than electricity produced from any other source in the UK.
Wind turbines can supply energy to rural areas that are not connected to the electricity grid. An increasing number of farms have wind turbines installed.
Many jobs have been created in research and development and the manufacture of wind turbines. Siemens constructed a £160 million off-shore wind turbine factory at Green Port Hull, in Yorkshire, creating 1,000 jobs.
7 negatives of wind power
Wind Turbines built on peat bogs require the bogs to be drained. This releases carbon dioxide that would otherwise have been stored – causing pollution.
Onshore wind farms are usually found in rural locations far from areas of high demand. This means electricity is lost in transferring to areas of higher demand/population.
Some argue wind farms are dangerous for birds and other wildlife.
Wind farms struggle to meet demand for energy at peak times such as early evening due to rise in use of home appliances for evening meals.
Wind power can be irregular and intermittent. During high pressure, for example, there can be periods of no winds or very low speeds leaving turbines motionless, producing no or very little power. This may coincide with very cold periods in winter when demand is higher.
Manufacture and implementation of wind farms can be costly.
There is concern about the visual impact of wind farms, particularly in areas of scenic value.
