Explain power extraction concept from wind power plant.

Wind energy is a form of renewable energy that harnesses the kinetic energy of moving air (wind) and converts it into electrical energy using wind turbines.

The movement of air (wind circulation) is caused due to uneven heating of the Earth’s surface:

• Daytime: Land heats faster → warm air rises → cold air from sea moves in
• Night: Land cools faster → cold air from land moves toward sea

This natural air movement creates a continuous source of wind energy.

Construction (Main Components):

• Rotor Blades: Capture wind energy
• Hub: Central part to which blades are attached
• Shaft: Connects rotor to gearbox and generator
• Gearbox: Increases rotational speed for generator efficiency
• Generator: Converts mechanical energy into electrical energy
• Tower: Provides elevation for better wind capture
• Base/Foundation: Supports the entire setup

Working Principle (Power Extraction Concept):

The wind power plant works on the principle of aerodynamic energy conversion from wind to electricity.

Step-by-step Process:

1. Wind Flow:
   • Moving wind contains kinetic energy.
   • As wind blows across the rotor, blades start rotating.
2. Mechanical Energy Generation:
   • Kinetic energy of wind is converted into rotational mechanical energy via rotating blades and hub.
3. Gearbox Operation:
   • The low-speed rotation from blades is passed to a gearbox.
   • Gearbox increases the speed and ensures smooth and consistent rotation.
4. Electricity Generation:
   • The rotational energy is transferred via shaft to the generator.
   • Generator converts this into electrical energy.
5. Power Output:
   • The generated electricity is then sent for distribution and utilization.

Energy Conversion Summary:

Kinetic Energy (Wind)
        ↓
Mechanical (Rotational) Energy (Rotor & Shaft)
        ↓
Electrical Energy (Generator)

Advantages of Wind Power:

• ✅ Clean and renewable energy
• ✅ No fuel cost and minimal operational cost
• ✅ No air or water pollution
• ✅ Ideal for remote areas with high wind availability

Disadvantages:

• ❌ Wind speed is not constant — depends on weather and location
• ❌ Requires large area of open land
• ❌ Visual and noise pollution in some locations
• ❌ Initial installation cost is high