Issues and challenges of wind energy

Abstract

Wind energy is a clean and renewable source of energy which can be utilized in meeting the increasing demand for electrical energy. International Energy Agency (IEA) has identified it as key element to reduce fossil fuel dependency and helpful tool to combat global warming. The principle of harnessing this energy is by capturing the kinetic energy of wind using wind turbine and further converting it into electrical energy using a generator. Although it seems simple but there are many challenges associated in harnessing this type of energy. This paper highlights the importance of wind energy and also examines the key regulatory challenges & issues that are faced in promoting wind energy power plants including social, environmental and techno-economic impacts. There are many possible solutions for these issues which have been successfully implemented worldwide. However, these solutions will involve high costs making it financially non-viable. Hence, government policies must be explicitly designed to promote wind energy.