Wind has surpassed hydroelectric as the largest source of renewable energy in the US, and fourth largest source overall, behind gas, coal, and nuclear power generation. To put it in perspective, assuming an average power output of 500 megawatts from a coal fired plant, the US wind power capacity has the same output as about 160 coal-fired generating plants.
Temperature measurement plays a key role in wind power generation. During operation, the rotor speed must be maintained within safe operating limits. If the rotor is allowed to spin freely in high wind, the safe operating speed may be exceeded, leading to overheating, and eventual failure of the turbine. The temperature of the turbine is monitored using platinum resistance temperature sensors, and the measurement is inputted into the turbine control system.
