Wind Energy: How Is Wind Turned Into Electricity?

Wind energy relies on converting the kinetic energy of wind into electrical energy using devices called wind turbines. This technology has developed rapidly and is now widely used in wind farms, both on land and at sea.

Main Components of a Wind Turbine:

1. Blades (Les pales):
   These are large, fan-like structures. When the wind blows, it pushes the blades, causing them to spin.

2. Rotor (Le rotor):
   This is the rotating part connected to the blades. It transfers the motion inward.

3. Gearbox (Multiplicateur de vitesse):
   Located between the rotor and the generator, its role is to increase the rotation speed since blade rotation is relatively slow, while the generator requires higher speed.

4. Generator (Générateur):
   The electrical heart of the turbine. When its shaft spins fast enough, it generates electricity through electromagnetic induction.

5. Yaw System (Système d’orientation):
   This system orients the turbine to face the wind direction for optimal performance.

6. Tower (Mât):
   The structure that supports the turbine, raising it high where wind is stronger and more consistent.

7. Control and Braking System (Système de contrôle et de freinage):
   Monitors turbine performance and stops it in cases of extreme wind to prevent damage.

How Does It Work?

1. Wind blows and moves the blades.
2. Blades rotate the rotor.
3. The rotor spins the gearbox.
4. The gearbox increases the rotation speed.
5. The generator produces electricity.
6. Electricity is sent to a transformer, then to the grid.

Typical Technical Data for a Medium Turbine:

• Blade diameter: 80 meters
• Tower height: 100 meters
• Required wind speed to operate: 3 to 25 m/s
• Output power: Around 2 to 3 MW
• Output voltage: Between 400 and 700 volts, then stepped up by a transformer.

Technical Advantages:

• Lower maintenance compared to diesel generators
• Automated operation using PLCs (programmable logic controllers)
• Can be integrated with batteries or storage systems