Wind mills have been around since as early as 5000 B.C. They were used for pumping water, grinding grains, food production etc. It wasn’t until the
1930’s that wind powered generators were use to make electricity.
Wind powered generators had a dual purpose; they were used to pump well water on farms across the U.S and also generate a small amount of electricity for rural farmers. These became obsolete as cheap energy became available to all rural farms.
When the oil crisis hit in the early 1970’s there was a renewed interest in wind electricity. The potential of this technology had barely been scratched.
In CA wind farms started appearing, the interest continues to grow because of peck oil. The demand from developing countries like China and India continues to increase putting more price pressures on remaining sources.
The negative environmental impact of oil, gas and coal is becoming much more of a concern as the cumulative pollution effects are becoming more obvious. The pollution of our food supply, water and soil are having devastating effects on our health.
In windy areas of the country it is now financially feasible to implement wind power for providing power to whole cities. I will become more common place to see whole wind farms in many areas. Many states are embracing the new technology with great tax and rebate incentives for those of us who want our own power systems.
