As energy demands continue to rise today, we face the reality that fossil fuel resources are limited and will eventually be exhausted at some point day. Coal, oil and natural gas like fossil fuels are finite resources whose combustion results in carbon emissions that contribute to global warming. Therefore, the use of renewable energy resources is of vital importance. Wind energy stands out as an unlimited, clean and environment friendly energy source.
History of Wind Energy
The use of wind energy dates back centuries. Historically, wind-powered water pumps and mills were first used in ancient Egyptian and Mesopotamian civilizations. Throughout the Middle Ages, windmills in Europe were used to grind grain. In the 19th century, with the industry revolution, wind turbines began to be developed and used for together modern production.
Advantages of Wind Energy
- Renewable and Unlimited: Wind is an energy source available at all times of the day and in all seasons.
- Environmentally Friendly: Wind turbines produce electricity without emitting carbon or causing air pollution.
- Low Operating Costs: Although initial installation costs are high, wind energy offers an economically viable option due to low long-term operating expenses.
- Contribution to Local Economy: It creates local employment and enhances energy independence.
Disadvantages of Wind Energy
- Variability: Fluctuations in wind speed can lead to instability in electricity generation.
- Noise and Aesthetic Issues: The sound emitted by turbines and their visual impact may be controversial in certain regions.
- Impact on Wildlife: Birds and bats face the risk of collision with turbine blades.
Global Use of Wind Energy
Many World around the world are making significant investments in wind energy. In particular, European Union countries, USA and China widely utilize wind energy.
- Europe: Countries such as Denmark, Germany and Spain are leaders in wind energy. Denmark meets a large portion of its electricity demand from wind energy.
- USA: The USA is among the world’s largest wind energy producers, thanks to its large wind farms.
- China: China, the country with the highest investment in wind energy in recent years, possesses the largest wind energy capacity in the world.
Wind Energy Use in Türkiye
Scientific studies on wind energy in Türkiye began in the 1960s. After the 1980s, these studies speed and in the 1990s the Türkiye Wind Atlas was published. Today, Türkiye is continuously increasing its wind energy capacity.
- Aegean and Marmara Regions: The most productive wind energy sites in Türkiye are located in the Aegean and Marmara regions. Numerous wind power plants are found in cities such as İzmir, Balıkesir and Çanakkale.
- Developing Sector: Türkiye aims to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels by increasing investments in wind energy.
New Technological Developments in Wind Energy
In recent years, significant important advancements have been made in wind energy technology:
- Offshore Floating Wind Turbines: Turbines installed in open seas without fixed foundations can harness stronger winds.
- Vertical Axis Turbines: Turbines requiring less space and capable of operating even at low wind speeds are being developed.
- Energy Storage Systems: Lithium-ion batteries, hydrogen production and pumped hydroelectric systems are being used to balance the intermittent nature of wind energy.
The Future of Wind Energy
The share of wind energy in the global energy market is expected to grow in the future. Experts predict that by 2050, 35 percent of the world’s energy demand could be met by wind energy.
- Larger and More Efficient Turbines: Massive turbines exceeding 300 meters in height will enable greater energy production.
- Optimization with Artificial Intelligence: Wind turbines will become more efficient through the use of artificial intelligence and big data analytics.
- Energy Independence: Wind energy will enable countries to reduce their dependence on fossil fuels.
Wind energy is progressing toward becoming one of the most significant energy sources of the future.
