Wind power basics

Wind energy is the fastest growing source of energy in the world, and by the year 2020 it is projected to supply at least 12 percent of global electrical demand. Wind Power Basics provides a clear understanding of wind and wind energy systems, including turbines, towers, inverters and batteries, site assessment, installation, and maintenance requirements. Whether you're considering your own small-scale wind energy system or just want a straightforward, detailed introduction to the benefits and challenges of this rapidly emerging technology, Wind Power Basics is the guide you need.

"A green energy guide"--Cover

Introduction to small-scale wind energy : World wind energy resources ; The pros and cons of wind energy ; The purpose of this book ; Organization of this book -- Wind and wind energy : What is wind? ; Large-scale wind currents ; Wind from storms ; Friction, turbulence and smart siting ; The mathematics of wind power ; Closing thoughts -- Wind energy systems : Wind turbines ; Towers ; Wind energy system options ; Hybrid systems ; Choosing a wind energy system -- Wind site assessment : Assessing electrical demand ; Conservation and efficiency first! ; Assessing your wind resource ; How much energy will a wind turbine produce? ; Does a wind system make economic sense? ; Putting it all together -- A primer on wind generators : The anatomy of a wind turbine ; The main components of wind turbines ; What to look for when buying a wind machine ; Other considerations ; Building your own wind machine ; Conclusion -- Towers and tower installation : Tower options ; Tower kits ; Tower anchors and bases ; Proper siting of a wind machine ; Tower height considerations ; Aircraft safety and the FAA ; Protecting against lightening -- Batteries and charge controllers : Which types of batteries work…