Wind is created by the unequal heating of the Earth's surface by the sun. Wind turbines convert the kinetic energy in wind into clean electricity. When the wind spins the wind turbine's blades, a rotor captures the kinetic energy of the wind and converts it into rotary motion to drive the generator.
Most turbines have automatic overspeed-governing systems to keep the rotor from spinning out of control in very high winds. A small wind system can be connected to the electric grid through your power provider or it can stand alone (off-grid). This makes small wind electric systems a good choice for rural areas that are not already connected to the electric grid.
If you have enough wind resource in your area and the situation is right, small wind electric systems are one of the most cost-effective home-based renewable energy systems with zero emissions and pollution. Small wind electric systems can lower your electricity bills by 50%–90%. Small wind electric systems can also be used for a variety of other applications, including water pumping on farms and ranches.