The Math of Offshore Wind
Math has always been my friend: it is certain, reliable, and precise. It can predict when train #2 will overtake train #1. In the realm of wind energy it explains why offshore is better than onshore. Wind energy is the product of [(air density) x (2 x turbine blade length)2 x (wind speed)3]. Therefore wind turbines are most powerful if the weather is colder, the blade longer, and the wind blows harder. During the peak loads of summer, winds over the lakes are more dense than over the land. Larger turbine blades can be floated to locations than can be railed or trucked. And offshore winds in Michigan are stronger than the winds over land. Despite high installation and maintenance costs the exponents will make all the difference in bringing offshore wind to Michigan. Ahoy matey.
