Wind power in Germany facts for kids
Germany is a world leader in using wind power. This means they use the wind to make electricity. In 2006, Germany had machines that could make 20,621 megawatts (MW) of power from wind. This was more than any other country, even Spain which had 11,615 MW. Germany has about 18,000 wind turbines, which are like giant windmills. The country plans to build even more of them.
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What is Wind Power?
Wind power uses the natural movement of wind to create electricity. It is a type of renewable energy. This means the source of energy, wind, will not run out. Wind is caused by the sun heating the Earth unevenly. This creates air movements that we feel as wind.
How Do Wind Turbines Work?
A wind turbine has large blades that look like an airplane propeller. When the wind blows, it pushes these blades. The blades then spin a shaft inside the turbine. This shaft is connected to a generator. The generator is a machine that turns the spinning motion into electricity.
Why is Wind Power Important?
Using wind power helps the environment. Unlike burning fossil fuels like coal or gas, wind turbines do not release harmful gases into the air. These gases can cause global warming and air pollution. Wind power helps countries become more independent for their energy needs. They do not have to rely on other countries for fuel.
Germany's Wind Energy Journey
Germany has been working hard to use more clean energy. This effort is part of their "Energiewende," which means "energy transition." They want to switch from fossil fuels and nuclear power to renewable sources. Wind power is a big part of this plan.
Onshore and Offshore Wind Farms
Most wind turbines in Germany are on land. These are called onshore wind farms. They are often built in windy areas like flat plains or coastal regions. Germany also builds offshore wind farms. These are located in the sea, usually far from the coast. Offshore wind farms can be very large. They often catch stronger and more consistent winds.
Benefits of Offshore Wind Farms
Offshore wind farms can produce a lot of electricity. The winds over the ocean are usually stronger and blow more steadily. This means the turbines can work more often and make more power. Building them at sea also means they take up less space on land.
Future of Wind Power in Germany
Germany continues to invest in wind energy. They are building new, more powerful turbines. They are also working on better ways to store the energy. This is important because the wind does not always blow. Storing energy helps make sure there is always enough power. Germany hopes to get a large part of its electricity from wind and other renewable sources in the future.
Related pages
- Renewable energy in Germany
- Passivhaus
- Global warming
Images for kids
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Offshore wind farms in the German Bight
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Energy transition scenario in Germany
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Wind power Germany 2016 fact sheet: electricity generation, development, investments, capacity, employment and the public opinion.
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Geographic distribution of wind farms in Germany
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Wind farm in Panketal
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Wind park in Bernburg, consisting entirely of Enercons
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