What is renewable energy?
Renewable energy comes from energy resources that are continuously replenished through the cycles of nature. Unlike fossil fuels, their supply will never become exhausted. The main sources of renewable energy are the sun (solar energy), the wind, moving water (hydropower, wave and tidal energy), heat below the surface of the earth (geothermal energy) and biomass (wood, waste, energy crops). For more information see About renewable energy.
Where does wind energy come from?
Ultimately all our energy comes from the sun. The heat in the solar energy that reaches the Earth drives air masses around the globe. Hot air is lighter than cold air so to achieve a balanced temperature the air begins to move, giving rise to wind. This wind sweeps across Earth's surface and it will continue to do so for as long as the sun shines. We can harness this diffuse energy with wind turbines and transform it into electricity.
How long has wind been used as a source of energy?
Since Ancient Times wind energy has been used for sailing, grain milling and irrigation. The earliest recorded windmill in Ireland dates back to 1281 (Kilscanlon, Co. Wexford) and by 1840 around 250 windmills existed.
Over the last few decades there has been renewed interest in wind energy due to its environmental benefits over fossil fuel combustion of coal, oil, gas and peat. It offers increased security of supply as it is considered an indigenous resource.
What is the current installed wind capacity in Ireland?
Source: Eirgrid, Connected Wind Report 2009
Installed wind capacity as of October 2009 is 575MW connecting to the distribution network and 586 connected to transmission network; total 1,161MW.
Where can I find out more information on wind energy?
The Renewable Energy Information Office is operated by Sustainable Energy Ireland. The Office provides independent expert advice on financial, social, environmental and technical issues relating to all renewable energy resources including wind, solar, hydro, geothermal and biomass.
Contact Sustainable Energy Ireland, Renewable Energy Information Office, Shinagh House, Bandon, Co. Cork. Tel: 023 8842193, Fax: 023 8829154,
Email: renewables@reio.ie, Web: http://www.sei.ie
See our Links section for more sources of general information
