Renewable Energy FAQs (CLICK HERE)
What are Wind Turbines?
A wind turbine is like a huge fan that produces renewable energy. Wind flow is modified by the earth's terrain, bodies of water, and vegetation. We use this wind flow for many purposes: sailing, flying a kite, and generating electricity.
So how do wind turbines make electricity? A wind turbine works the opposite of a fan. A fan uses electricity to make wind, while wind turbines use wind to make electricity. Wind turns the blades, which spins a shaft, which connects to a generator, and makes electricity. One of the key drawbacks to wind power is the intermittent nature of the wind supply that makes electricity generation from this resource not as reliable as other forms. Rarely does the wind blow at a constant speed every day. The fluctuations in the amount of wind pushing a wind turbine directly translates into a fluctuating power supply. When the wind is not blowing, other more traditional (and controllable) sources of energy (like hydro and gas-fired generation) are used to fill in the gaps in order to provide our customers with the continuous and reliable power they expect every time they flip a light switch. See Renewable Energy Challenges to learn more.
Does REU Purchase or Produce Wind Energy?
REU signed a long-term contract to purchase wind power from a project in the Pacific Northwest. REU began receiving its wind power in the fall of 2006. REU is particularly interested in clean, renewable, wind power for several reasons including its environmental benefits and the fact that wind power was purchased at a competitive price when compared to other conventional resources.
To learn how much renewable energy REU has in its power portfolio, check the current Power Content Label.
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