Which is best solar or wind power generation ?

3 Comments

1. artsupremo says:

   May 15, 2010 at 4:34 am

   Solar power has an efficiency of 30% only and its cost is high per unit watt produced, while wind power may be more efficient, it can’t be installed anywhere, a continuous wind flow of 5.0 m/s is required.
2. M M T says:

   May 15, 2010 at 4:34 am

   Depends on your location. If you’re in an area where there is always a breeze moving, wind might be the way to go. Solar will work anywhere, even in the rainy North west of the US but of course, it works better where there is sun the majority of the time.

   Both are great technologies but much of how well they will work or how much power you can generate depends on the size of the units, your budget and your geographical location.
3. flingebunt says:

   May 15, 2010 at 4:34 am

   Depends on many things, including scale, location and setup budget and usage.

   For example, solar power is great for water heating, as it transfers sunlight directly into heat.

   Also solar powered calculated are more convenient than say wind powered calculators.

   Wind generation has many negative issues, include noise pollution and kills many birds. Something solar power doesn’t.

   THe solution seems to be a combination of different technologies.

   Solar power for remote lower power uses, home power generation and portable needs. The Japanese are working on a space spaced solar power collector which would be wonderful for mass collection of energy.

   On the other hand wind is good for such things as boats, and mass power generation.

   Other technologies step in, including hydro electricity, but also wave power (for boats and electricity) and tide power (which is the best and most consistent power source).