There is a lot of criticism and mostly scepticism regarding wind being an alternative energy source.
First being the reliability of the wind source. Next being the ability of wind generated power to meet peak deamands.
I can go on and on the subjects but will concentrate on these 2 for now.
If the current sources were perfect, I could understand that the critics are demanding perfection from the alternatives being considered. All sources of power or for that matter every individual item has it's own peculiarities.
In any case, in our part of the world, the load-shedding in urban areas is one hour to 12 hours depending where you are. Rural areas have down-time in days. :-(
Point is, whether we can do something about the differing qualities of choices available to somehow meet our objectives?
I think, yes, we can.
If we see the current power plants, they are designed for higher capacity, most of them, than what they operate on most of the times. So, they might be near their capacity during peak demand hours, they are working below their capacity at other times.
Looking at wind, why can't we do the same. Create wind turbines for capacities larger than what is needed, this way we can meet demands for most of the times. At times when we don't have a real need of the power, we can use it for other community specific purposes (something like running fountains in parks, some light sound shows at nights etc.).
Better still, for areas where it may work, let wind turbines be created with high capacities. And the periods when there is additional electricity being generated and not used, let it be used to pump water to a location higher in altitude. Once wind slows, use this water, with a good head, to generate electricity and meet the demands.
Easier said than done, but what we are going through is not an easy situation either. Some such combinations and innovative ways to deal with the situation will give us freedom from oil slavery.
Besides, I am sure, once we move to the alternative energy regime, we will see many positive changes that will give us the room to be not so perfect.
All those dim wits who can't see what is approaching if we continue with current sources of power are trying to sound very intelligent by finding faults with alternative sources. But at this time, intelligent is the one who tries a solution, not the one who faults a solution.
Thanks.