Wind Turbine Interactions with Birds, Bats, and their Habitats: A Summary of Research Results and Priority Questions

1 Nameplate capacity is the maximum rated output of a generator under specific conditions designated by the manufacturer. Installed generator nameplate capacity is commonly expressed in MW. W ind energy has gained prominence as a means of generating electricity without emitting air pollutants or greenhouse gases. As the wind spins a wind turbine's blade assembly, known as a rotor, a generator connected to the rotor generates electricity. Large wind turbines generate electricity at a lower cost and higher efficiency than smaller ones, because longer rotor blades capture the energy from a larger cross-section of the wind, known as the rotor-swept area, and because taller towers generally provide access to stronger winds. The greater and more consistent the wind, the more electricity is produced.