Alternative Energy
In the contemporary world, energy needs are constantly increasing. This has necessitated energy stakeholders to search for alternative energy sources to satisfy these needs (Evans, 2008). In addition, they have to address the challenge of sustainability and longevity of the energy source. The principal energy source in the U.S. for years has been fossil fuels. With the challenges involved with this energy source, it has become a priority for the stakeholders in the sector to discover new sources. This is with the actuality that fossil fuels will only be applicable for a while. Renewable sources like the wind have been identified to a suitable resource since they are environmental friendly and sustainable. However, there are numerous factors, which require research in order for these alternatives to be implemented successfully. This includes issues of costs involved and the best approach to implement the application of wind energy. In addition, the consequences of application of wind energy on society and the environment should also be considered. Despite wind energy being identified as a viable alternative for fossil fuels, it is essential to consider numerous factors in order for it to successfully implemented for use in the society.There is a constant concern for energy stakeholders oh just how long the fossil fuel reserves will be available for use. This is especially crucial since the society is over reliant on fossil fuels for their energy needs. Extensive research concerning this issue has not been conclusive, but the results were clear, that, fossil fuels are not sustainable and will run out in the near future. The period provided by researchers estimated reserves to run out between 50 to 120 years.America has vast energy needs. This is reflected in its annual electricity production amounting to approximately 4,000 billion kilowatt-hours. This amount is expected to increase by 0.8% annually, and the production is expected to grow to 4775 kilowatt-hours in 2035 (United States, 2010). Considering the windmill as an alternative energy source, it is essential to examine its production to determine if it is a viable solution. The production of a wind turbine to generate electricity is dependent on numerous factors. These factors include the turbine size, and speed the wind is moving experienced through the rotor (Manwell, McGowan and Rogers, 2007). Most manufacturers of wind turbines make machines with the capacity of 700 kilowatts to 1.65 megawatts range (Wengenmayr and Bührke, 2011). Therefore, for the American society to replace the fossil fuel production system it will involve a sizable amount of turbines to realize the current production threshold. Considering the aforementioned statistics, if the system involves the turbines producing 700kw, in order for them to realize the required amount of 4000 billion kilowatts, 6 billion wind turbines will be required to satisfy this energy requirement. If the chosen turbines produce the 1.65-megawatt limit, approximately 2.5 billion turbines will be required. It is apparent from the statistics that, for the U.S to replace effectively, the current system, a substantial amount of investment and wind turbines are …