Dangerous Winds Raise Questions About Wind Energy

Despite the devastation in the South from the recent tornadoes, wind farms seem to have escaped relatively unscathed. However, some point out that wind turbines in the affected area are somewhat scarce.

On the other hand, many wind farm operators were quick to point out that wind turbines used in areas of the country where high winds ARE fairly common, are designed to withstand extremely high winds.

Even so, most wind turbines are designed for operation in winds ranging between 25 and 50 mph. They are not designed for winds of tornadic strength, and even sub-tornado winds in excess of this range can cause severe damage to wind turbines.

On the other hand, in most instances, wind farm operators will have enough advance notice so as to be able to set the vanes on the turbines so that they will be less affectd by high winds.

Operators of American wind farms, which are found in 38 of the 50 states, are encouraged by the survival of most wind turbines in Japan recently.

Wind, which has long been an important source of power for man can also be a source of destruction.
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