Albertans think wind, but do they think wind power?
In Southern Alberta, the wind is a common source of complaint. Blowing from the west across the Rockies and down to the foothills and Canadian prairies, the wind warms as it moves downward. A strong wind, the Chinook brings enough warmth to melt and evaporate a foot of snow in one day. Tapping the power of these winds are groups of wind turbines at the crest of foothills where they are used to produce electric power. I have many photographs of these turbines that I captured as I travelled around Southern Alberta. I personally enjoy their look as they white outline Alberta’s hills and they so easily blend into the clouds that one has to wait for a cloudless day for a photo if the turbines are the part of the landscape that you want to capture.
Wind turbines do not pollute the environment; in particular, they do not generate radioactive waste. I have long had a strong aversion to the use of nuclear plants for power generation. The recent problems arising from Japan’s recent tragedies only serve to increase my concern about nuclear power. I wonder if wind has the power to blow my concerns away. Given that it is election time, it is a good time to promote safe, resourceful power sources.
I have noticed that many of the turbines, while still standing are not turning as they did in prior years. They are not as efficient as other means of generating power and a large number are required to meet energy demands, requiring significant investment. Heavy winds can bring down the blades and even topple the turbines. I “hear” that they are noisy. I also imagine and have read that they are not bird friendly.
However, I am both surprised and curious that Alberta does not appear to be involved in WESNet, NSERC’s Wind Energy Strategic Network. I believe that Canadians are resilient and creative and are capable of solving the cons that surround using Chinook resources to power our lives.
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