DCTI - Windenergy V.2

15© DCTI 2009 | Volume 2 - Wind Energy < Figure 2: Global wind speeds in meter/second > Wind speeds: Global wind speeds vary depen- ding on location. Highest wind speeds are recorded in coastal and offshore areas. Key Facts and Figures • All forms of energy, whether wind, solar or nuclear power, are integrated into the electricity network. In practice, one can view the electricity network as a large pool, with a high number of fountains (power stations) and drainage holes (consumers) [GWEC: 2008a, P.25]. The main task of the grid operator is to ensure that the water in the pool remains in balance – it should never run out, nor overflow. Consequently, it is the equilibrium in the electricity network which maintains the system’s stability and security. Since the electricity network corresponds with the level of demand, it is common to see the rotor blades of a single wind turbine standing still, while those of the surrounding turbines are rotating. CHAPTERIII