Wind power is derided by those critical of the idea as the kind of power used a couple of centuries ago to power the big sail ships that discovered the American continent to begin. Granted, this is a reasoning which at face value is hard to argue. But, there are also other considerations to keep in mind. The pros and cons of wind power are hardly simplistic.


As a renewable energy source, wind power is sometimes hailed as being the answer to those who are not sure where the solar power debate is going. After all, it is plentiful, available around the world, can be harnessed, and of course makes for extensive energy applications.


Sadly, this is where the list of positive attributes by and large stops. A listing of the pros and cons of wind power showcases that the itemization on the con side is a lot more plentiful. The predictability of the wind, for example, leaves a lot to be desired and it is entirely possible to not experience any wind during certain times.


Even though wind power is mainly an energy resource that replaces fossil power generation, it can also be used for replacing existing power plant capacity. In areas where wind power production is high during peak demand, wind power can replace other capacity by up to 40 percent of the installed wind power capacity.


In addition, the impact that the creation of wind harnessing mills has on the environment is somewhat questionable. There is the clearing of vast fields that must be discussed, the impact on animals caught in the turbines, and of course the aesthetics involved in seeing vast open spaces littered with these contraptions. The cost is also sometimes cited as being too high for the actual wind energy that may be obtained from the turbines being operated.