Wind turbine power generation – fundamentals

How wind turbines generate electricity:

Wind turbines consist of large rotor blades, often mounted on a tall tower. When the wind blows, it causes the rotor blades to rotate.
As the rotor blades spin, they harness the kinetic energy of the wind. The energy in the moving air particles is transferred to the rotor blades.
The spinning rotor blades are connected to a main shaft inside the turbine. As the blades rotate, they turn the shaft, which in turn spins a generator.
The generator is the core component responsible for converting mechanical energy into electrical energy. It consists of a rotor and a stator. The spinning shaft causes the rotor inside the generator to rotate, creating a magnetic field.
The rotating magnetic field of the rotor induces an electrical current in the stationary stator. This process, known as electromagnetic induction, relies on Faraday’s law of electromagnetic induction.
The electrical current produced in the stator is in the form of alternating current (AC). AC is the type of electricity commonly used in power grids.
Before the electricity can be sent to the power grid or used locally, it undergoes power conditioning. This involves converting the AC power to a higher voltage and adjusting its frequency and other parameters to match the requirements of the electrical grid.
The conditioned electricity is transmitted through power lines and integrated into the electrical grid. It can then be distributed to homes, businesses, and other consumers, providing a source of clean, renewable energy.

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