Today, we are able to find various types of energy systems which are based on different renewable sources such as hydrogen, geothermal, biomass, water, wind, and solar. From all these, the water, biomass and geothermal are not viable solutions for homeowners.

One of the most efficient ecological systems is the wind turbine. Today, we can distinguish two models which are presented by the vertical axis turbines – Savonius and Darrieus turbines – and one type of horizontal axis turbines. The next paragraphs offer important information about every turbine type.

Savonius Turbines: These turbines present an S shape which can be seen from above. The turbine turns quite slow but it definitely yields high torque. Because the slow rotation cannot generate electricity, the design is a great choice for different tasks such as pumping water or grinding grain. The Savonius turbines can be easily built and the most common model proves an “S” which is formed from 55-gallon drum cut into two pieces and displayed as letter “S”. The common model can be easily scaled to any dimensions.

Darrieus Turbines: These types of turbines were developed in France, at the beginning of last century. The design of the turbine proves to be similar to an eggbeater. It provides vertical blades which rotate into the wind. The action of the turbine is sustained by an aerodynamic lift system. The model also provides two variations, Cycloturbine and Giromill that capture more energy when compared to the initial design.

Both vertical axis turbine types are rarely used today. The commonly used model is the horizontal axis turbine that represents the third category.

Horizontal Axis Turbines: Today, these turbines are widely used. We are able to see them in many locations such as open fields. This model presents a blade which is similar to the airplane propeller but much bigger. Some models are smaller being suitable for residential locations.

The turbines are mounted on tall towers of about 30 meters and sometimes even higher. They present a fan which actions as a rotor that faces the wind. These tall towers offer the advantage of stronger wind that is actually less turbulent as high altitude ensures fewer currents.

In this system, each blade plays the role of an airplane’s wing. If the wind blows, the blades create low pressure that pulls the mechanism towards the current. This actually turns the blade, thing that is simply named “lift”. This force is very strong as it actually defeats the wind’s force. The force which is presented by blade’s front side is named “drag”. The combination that is ensured by the “lift” and “drag” forces spins the rotor similar to an airplane’s propeller.

Once the blades turn and engage the entire mechanism, a generator stores the energy and transforms it into electricity. Then, the electricity is directed towards a converter box, installed in your home that delivers power for your electrical equipment.

The wind turbines can deliver the same energy even in the worst environments. Everything they need is the wind and for a proper functionality, they have to be placed in windy locations.