Wind

Wind power is generated by transforming the kinetic energy of air into mechanical energy and then electricity. It typically employs wind turbines, either on larger-scale wind farms that are connected to the electric grid, or smaller scale turbines that are used in specific or isolated locations. Wind power, like solar power, can be intermittent depending on weather conditions.

Although wind is a renewable resource, construction of wind farms can be controversial because of aesthetic and environmental concerns. In general, wind power is most available in the United States on the coasts or in the plains regions. Future expansion of wind power into off-shore wind production may produce a greater percentage of the world’s power.

The graph below shows potential wind resources for the United States. The area surrounding St. Louis is very weak on wind resources, although in Central Illinois there are limited opportunities.

http://www.npr.org/news/graphics/2009/apr/electric-grid/

http://www.wwindea.org/home/images/stories/worldwindenergyreport2008_s.pdf