STS

How It Works

We unpack a bundle of useful information to help you save money on energy bills.

We examine how energy is changing not only in the UK but around the world. This includes all the latest information about green energy and schemes. This information is put together in a range of formats including original research reports, infographics and even interactive maps.

Better still, we’ll give you plenty of hands-on business energy-saving tips. From conservation tips you can implement around the office to extensive guides on switching to renewable providers, you’ll find everything you need to go green the smart way. And the best part? All the advice you’ll find here is free. Start reading our latest Energy Talk articles below.

Energy Sources

  • Solar Energy: Energy from the sun, captured using solar panels and converted into electricity.
  • Wind Energy: Energy from the wind, captured using wind turbines to generate electricity.
  • Hydropower: Energy from flowing or falling water, typically harnessed by dams to produce electricity.
  • Geothermal Energy: Heat from within the Earth, used for heating or generating electricity.
  • Biomass Energy: Energy from organic materials like wood, crops, and animal waste.
  • Wind is caused by the uneven heating of the Earth’s surface by the sun. As the sun heats different areas of the Earth, warmer air rises, and cooler air rushes in to fill the space, creating wind. This natural movement of air can be captured and converted into electricity.

Key Components of a Wind Turbine

  • Blades: These are designed to capture wind. Most wind turbines have two or three long, aerodynamic blades. When the wind blows, the blades catch the wind’s kinetic energy.
  • Rotor: The blades are attached to the rotor. When the blades catch the wind, the rotor spins.
  • Nacelle: This is the housing at the top of the turbine tower. It contains important components like the gearbox and generator.
  • Gearbox: The gearbox increases the rotational speed of the rotor, making it fast enough to generate electricity.
  • Generator: The generator converts the mechanical energy from the spinning rotor into electrical energy.
  • Tower: The tall structure that supports the blades and nacelle, placing the blades at a height where the wind speeds are higher and more consistent.

Advantages of Wind Energy

  • Renewable and Clean: Wind energy is a renewable resource that does not produce greenhouse gases or pollutants.
  • Low Operating Costs: Once a wind turbine is installed, the cost to operate and maintain it is relatively low compared to fossil fuel power plants.
  • Scalable: Wind farms can range from a few turbines to hundreds, allowing for flexibility in size and location.
  • Job Creation: The wind energy industry creates jobs in manufacturing, installation, and maintenance.
  • Sustainability Reporting: Publishes comprehensive sustainability reports aligned with GRI standards, showcasing transparency and accountability.

Challenges of Wind Energy

  • Intermittency: Wind is not always blowing, which makes it an intermittent energy source. This requires backup systems or energy storage to ensure consistent power supply.
  • Visual and Noise Impact: Some people find wind turbines visually unappealing or are concerned about noise pollution in close proximity to turbines.
  • Wildlife Impact: Wind turbines can pose a threat to birds and bats, although modern designs are reducing this risk.
  • Land Use: Wind farms require large areas of land, although the land can still be used for other purposes, such as farming or grazing.
Scroll to Top