Wind energy uses the energy in the wind for practical purposes like generating electricity, charging batteries, pumping water, or grinding grain. Wind turbines convert the kinetic energy of the wind into other forms of energy. Large, modern wind turbines operate together in wind farms to produce electricity for utilities. Small turbines are used by homeowners and remote villages to help meet energy needs.
The Department of Energy's Wind & Hydropower Technologies Program is managed in accordance with national energy policy. Wind energy diversifies the nation's energy supply, takes advantage of a domestic resource, and helps the nation meet its commitments to curb emissions of greenhouse gases, which threaten the stability of global climates. The DOE Wind & Hydropower Technologies Program works with industry to keep U.S. wind energy technology competitive in global markets, thus strengthening the economy. The program includes a comprehensive wind energy research program, wind turbine research and development, and support for utilities, industry, and international wind energy projects.
The Office of Scientific and Technical Information maintains technical reports and other information about Wind Energy Technology.
In addition, the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy runs the Wind & Hydropower Technologies Program which works with industry partners to develop and deploy both of these clean energy technologies.
