The Use Of Microgeneration Wind Energy

Wind energy is one of the fastest growing renewable energy source in the world. While massive wind farms, both onshore and offshore, are the primary focus as of late, microgeneration wind energy is a viable option for urban areas. Microgeneration wind energy is the small-scale implementation of wind turbines with the means of collecting wind energy. The use of small-scale wind energy is a perfect option for urban centers; microgeneration wind energy can be implemented through retrofitting existing buildings and constructing new buildings with an emphasis on microgeneration. Microgeneration will help both downtown urban areas and larger metropolitan regions reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and save money. Although multiple challenges currently …show more content…
Rectangular, block-shaped buildings with hard corners create more turbulent wind, while rounded or curved buildings are more aerodynamic. In the case of curved buildings, the air is able to pass around the building rather than being pushed down or in opposite directions. Placing a small-scale wind turbine on a rectangular building would introduce it to excessive turbulence, decreace productivity, and increase damage. However, placing a microgeneration wind turbine on a curved building would limit turbulence and allow for the turbine to function at a more rewarding efficiency (Yang et al., 2016). In fact, rounded roofs allow for high power density increases up to 86.5% (Yang et al., 2016). As architecture advances and more buildings adopt the idea of microgeneration wind energy, aerodynamics will play an important role. Buildings that want to benefit the most from their turbines will employ a circular shape, and buildings being retrofitted for small-scale turbines should be …show more content…
As technologies advance and more research is performed, small-scale wind energy will overcome the present challenges and be a viable option for urban areas. The concern over global climate change is evident in both political policy and everyday life. As countries and individuals attempt to move towards a greener future, microgeneration wind energy needs to be in their plan. Every individual needs to do their part to reduce carbon dioxide emissions, and small-scale actions are the key to this. It is not enough to rely on scientists, governments, or large companies to make the needed changes. If society wants to become sustainable, it will require action from everyone. By becoming energy independent through the use of microgeneration wind energy, individuals will push their peers and energy companies to transition towards renewable energy. The future is for everyone and so is microgeneration wind