As wind generators have evolved, four critical qualities have been perfected. Today's wind generators are quiet, capable of high performance for long periods of time and are extremely durable and efficient at converting the wind to electrical power.

Wind is a form of solar energy. Wind is created by the combination of the atmosphere's uneven heating by the sun, the irregularities of the earth's surface and the rotation of the earth around the sun. The earth's terrain, the earth's bodies of water and the earth's vegetation determine wind flow patterns.

Man has always been interested in wind. Over time, humans have learned to use wind for many purposes including motion energy activities like sailing, kite flying and now for generating electricity. Wind energy describes the process by which wind is used to generate mechanical power or electricity.

The development and evolution of wind generator technology has spurred the increase in the use of wind as a source of renewable energy. The purpose of a wind generator is to convert the wind's kinetic energy into mechanical power. The mechanical power is then used for specific tasks like pumping water. Wind generators convert this mechanical power into electricity.

In its simplest form, a wind generator works directly opposite the common fan. Rather than making wind, wind generators use the wind to make electricity by using the wind collected by wind turbines.

There are two basic types of wind turbines; horizontal-axis and vertical-axis. Horizontal turbines are the most common for residential applications. Horizontal turbines use two or three blades that are faced into the wind. Residential turbines are usually sized for 100 kilowatt capacity. Commercial turbines range up to several megawatts and are often arranged in wind farms.

Today's state-of-the-art residential wind energy turbine generators provide power to a hybrid solar-wind charged controller with 12, 24 and 48 volt auto-regulating states to assure optimal charging power of solar-wind and to protect the unit's battery bank from over-charging. These products are relatively inexpensive and incredibly efficient.

Since the unveiling of the original 100 kilowatt generator at Yalta in 1931, wind generators have come a long way in terms of capacity, size, noise levels and overall efficiency. The first utility grid wind turbine was produced by the John Brown Company of the Okney Islands and was used in the UK in 1954. This unit had an 18-meter diameter, a three bladed rotor and a rated output of 100 kilowatts.

To be effective, wind turbines work best in locations that have constantly high wind speeds. In these settings horizontal turbines are preferred. In settings where the wind direction is variable, vertical axis turbines are preferred. The generator for horizontal turbine sis usually located at the top of the tower. The generator for a vertical=axis turbine is located near the ground.

Over time, the technological advances of generators have enabled reliable delivery of power in extremely cold conditions. Earlier models struggled with this capability. Additionally, the early wind generators were known for excessive howling noises and vibration of the blades caused by high winds. These deficiencies have been corrected through more compact design and more efficient blade capacity. Whereas early versions of wind turbines and generators were cumbersome, today's efficient models are sleek and compact and greatly increase the aesthetic appeal of these renewable energy products.