Disadvantages And Disadvantages Of Wind Energy

According to Renewable Energy for America, in 2011 wind turbines generated enough electricity to power 11 million homes and 3,464 new turbines were built. The article also states that wind turbines are able to pay for themselves after three to six months in a windy environment. Turbine farms usually consist of about 100 turbines and creates an average of 250 megawatts (MW). To put this in perspective, it takes less than 10kW for residential energy supply. Additionally, wind energy produces no polluting emissions, and that is a huge move in the right direction for sustainable energy production. As with any source of energy there are advantages and disadvantages. Within the Wind Energy movement, wind energy seems to cause little to no environmental damage. The most …show more content…
Hydroelectricity is dependent on the amount of water, space, and height available to generate powerful enough water flow for energy production. The height in which the water fall determines the amount of potential energy can be converted into mechanical energy when the water hits the turbine blades, generating energy much like wind turbines. Internationally hydro power represents 16% of total electricity production. The main producer of hydroelectricity is China and following their lead Canada, Brazil and the US, according to U.S. Geological survey. The disadvantages arise from the construction of the dams. The dams interfere with natural habitats of water associated animals causing declines in wildlife populations, and can sometimes cause changes in the water quality and amount. Local communities near dam locations are displaced in many cases, because of the spaces a facility and dam requires. It has also been found that methane can sometimes form in reservoirs and be emitted to the atmosphere. However, hydropower produces incomparable amounts less greenhouse gases or pollution and plays a role in reducing greenhouse gas