See how wind turbines harness the power of wind to create electricity.
In this video: Our host, Megan, describes how a turbine harnesses the power of the wind to deliver electricity to homes and businesses.
Simply stated, a wind turbine works the opposite of a fan. Instead of using electricity to make wind, a turbine uses wind to make electricity.
The wind turns the blades, which spin a shaft, which connects to a generator and makes electricity The electricity is sent through transmission and distribution lines to a substation, then on to homes, business and schools.
High-tech turbines equal low environmental impact. That's why wind power is gaining public approval and generating increased awareness. It is also becoming economically competitive with more conventional power sources - a fact that's greatly improving its prospects as a viable energy source.
More from this category
Solar energy explained
Learn how solar energy works and how it can be used on homes and for large-scale generation.