The utilization of wind power and other renewable energy sources has been growing at a phenomenal rate. Wind Energy: Renewable Energy and the Environment, Fourth Edition explores the wind energy industry from its inception to today. It also presents the design, aerodynamics, operation, control, applications, and various types of wind turbines. Further, it covers the characteristics of wind, such as shear, power potential, and turbulence, and discusses the measurement and siting of individual wind turbines and wind farms. The book also discusses the political and economic factors regarding the adoption of wind as an energy source. This new edition is updated throughout and offers three new chapters, as well as a solutions manual for adopting instructors.

• Illustrates the need for a shift to renewable energy through discussions on energy use and the order of magnitude estimates for the lifetime of fossil fuels.
• Discusses the interconnection of wind turbines to utility grids, regulations on installation and operation, and the related environmental concerns.
• Updated throughout and adds three new chapters on climate change, energy storage, and observations.