Wind has been a resource exploited for human benefit throughout history, from the first windmills used for milling or pumping water it has been obvious that it could be used for a range of energy saving utilities. Modern wind turbines have since advanced the harnessing of this resource and have since developed into electricity generators.

The power generated is dependant on natural factors such as the shape of the landscape and its height above sea level. These factors, combined with environmental aesthetics, are the considerations taken into account when deciding on the suitable location for a single turbine or wind farm. Wind turbines are easier to construct and operate ONSHORE but there are higher average wind speeds OFFSHORE. The combined usage of both types have made wind farm generated electricity more competitive with fossil fuel power generation with a substantial reduction in price/kWh since their introduction in the early 1980's.

While a lot of attention has been paid to large wind farms, smaller organisations such as medium sized companies are also beginning to give serious consideration to installing some form of wind turbine to offset rises in electricity costs.

Useful sources for more info regarding generation are:

British Wind Energy Association - http://www.bwea.com/small/index.html

Energy Saving Trust - http://www.est.org.uk/myhome/generating/types/wind/

Greenphase - http://www.greenphase.com/wind.html