As wind power becomes more common, its unpredictability becomes more of a problem. Sudden drops in wind speed can send grid operators scrambling to cover the shortfall and even cause blackouts; unexpected surges can leave conventional power plants idling, incurring costs and spewing pollution to no purpose. Full Story »
Posted by Kaizar Campwala
Wind power complicates life. The article clearly presents details of technical difficulties created with the introduction of wind power into the electrical grid. The statistics show a dramatic increase in wind power from the past and expected in the near future. The real time variations of wind must be accurately transmitted to conventional power sources in time for them to adjust power if wind slackens or is more robust than expected. Accuracy of weather forecasting also becomes a crucial factor, and sudden consumer demands can create brownout threats. The difficulties are being coped with adequately. A couple of the links provided are not specific to the topic.
