Renewables NB

The Source for small-scale, renewable energy projects in New Brunswick, Canada

Wind

Moving air can provide a highly reliable source of mechanical energy. Wind energy has been harnessed for centuries for pumping water, making flour, and other applications.

To make electricity, the shaft of the turbine must be connected to an electrical generator. Through gearboxes, the generator converts the mechanical energy of the spinning turbine shaft into electricity.

Generators are small and light enough that they can be housed under an aerodynamically-designed cover at the top of the pole or tower. Wires running down the tower carry electricity to the grid, batteries or other appliances, where it is stored, and/or used.

Wind farms consist of rows of towers, sometimes 90 meters high, equipped with giant wind turbines for producing electricity.

Some Facts

  • As the air moves the blades of a wind turbine, the energy is converted into electricity.
  • Wind turbines are placed in locations where there are favorable weather patterns.
  • Small turbines can be used in home settings (300 W to 10 kW), or small businesses, and can supply electricity to the home only, or be net-metered.
  • Often large turbines are installed in wind farms or wind power plants. Wind farms can generate electricity that could be used locally.
  • In New Brunswick, the electricity generated from these wind farms is fed directly into the electricity grid.
  • Using wind energy reduces the environmental impact of generating electricity because it requires no fuel and does not produce pollution or greenhouse gases.

This web site provides information on projects in NB that generate electricity from wind for homes and small to medium-sized businesses. To learn more about wind farms please visit NB Power or Natural Resources Canada.