This article traces the development of wind energy. From ancient times when windmills were used to grind flour, through to modern-day turbines standing hundreds of meters tall and providing electricity to thousands of homes. How have we got here? Read on.
The Early Years For more than two thousand years, people have used wind power.
Heron of Alexandria, a mathematician, engineer, and inventor, invented a device he dubbed the windwheel in the first century AD. He turned a pipe organ into a windwheel that produced sounds resembling flutes.
The usage of wind energy then ceases until the 7th or 8th century AD, when windmills are discovered in Iran being used to grind grain and pump water.
Even though it took at least an additional 100 years for the appropriate intellect to arrive, the 1700s saw the discovery of electricity, which was the next significant advance in our tale.
Here comes James Blyth, the first wind energy engineer in history.
In July 1887, Blyth constructed Scotland’s first windmill. His
What is the cost of a windmill?
The location of the turbine—among other factors—determines whether it will be onshore or offshore.
Offshore turbines are far more expensive than onshore turbines because of the logistical difficulties and costs that are added.
A ratio is used to calculate costs, accounting for the capital expenditure (CAPEX) required to produce 1 megawatt (MW).
Onshore wind farms finished in 2016–19 had actual Capex costs reported at an average rate of £1.61 million per MW; offshore wind farms had actual Capex costs reported at an average rate of £4.49 million per MW (including transmission) or £3.99 million if the incredibly expensive Hywind project is excluded. [Source]
Levelized cost of energy (LCOE), which you can learn more about here, is one way to compare all the expenses involved.