Wind Energy System Components
... Modern wind energy systems consist of three basic components: a tower on which the wind turbine is mounted; a rotor that is turned by the wind; and the nacelle, which houses the equipment, including the generator, that converts the mechanical energy in the spinning rotor into electricity. The tower supporting the rotor and generator must be strong. Rotor blades need to be light and strong in order to be aerodynamically efficient and to withstand prolonged use in high winds. 1. Tower Improvements in structural design and construction materials have led to the construction of taller towers, allowing rotors to be mounted farther off the ground, where winds are typically stronger. Small wind turbines (less than 1 kilowatt) are installed on simple guyed (cable-anchored) poles ranging in height from 10 to 20 m (30 to 65 ft). Turbines from 1 to 30 kilowatts are installed on lattice or tubular towers ranging in height from 20 to 40 m (65 to 130 ft). Medium-size wind turbines are typically