Interactive Primary Newsletter 36 Sun and Wind (Renewable Energy Special)

Blades and wind turbines Just like the windmills of old, wind turbines use blades to turn the movement (kinetic) energy of the wind into a more practical form. However, rather than using it to grind corn or pump water for irrigation we are more interested nowadays in generating electricity. As wind flows over the curve-shaped (aerofoil) blades it causes lift (similar to the effect on aeroplane wings - in this case the movement is sideways rather than upwards) causing them to turn. Blades are connected to a central drive shaft, which turns an electric generator to produce electrical energy. This energy can be stored in batteries for use in low-voltage systems or exported back to the companies who supply ‘mains’ electricity and form what is known as the National Grid. For more information, from a Scottish viewpoint, on wind turbines and other forms of renewable energy visit the Renew Scotland website. As some schools have had a wind turbine installed, there are a number of aspects of their operation that you can investigate in the form of relatively simple class activities.. Class activities