Energy from the sun heats the surface of the Earth unevenly, which results in the formation of air pressure differences between locations. Hotter air rises and cooler air sinks, and the energy flow results in wind. The wind’s energy can be transformed into electricity with wind turbines.
The amount of electricity generated by a wind turbine depends on its size, the wind speed and wind turbine height. Because wind speed is variable, so too is the production of electricity by wind turbines. Higher wind speeds generally result in a higher output of electricity, though wind turbines will not function at wind speeds that exceed its capacity.
In March 2016, a study was conducted to assess the viability of wind power generation in all 25 communities in Nunavut. It resulted in a short list of top five potential communities in which wind energy could generate electricity. To read more on the Potential for Wind Energy in Nunavut Communities report, please click here.
The integration of energy produced by wind turbines to the existing diesel power generation system will minimize our diesel fuel dependency and subsequently reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the territory.