Wind energy is one of the fastest-growing renewable energy sources in the world, and wind turbines are at the heart of it. Globally, renewable energy capacity has seen a 140% increase between 2015 and 2024, a much faster rate than fossil fuels, which only grew by 16% for the same period (UN 2023).
But how does a wind turbine generate electricity, and what keeps these machines running efficiently year after year? In this article, we’ll break down how wind energy works, explore the technology behind modern turbines, and answer common questions — from maintenance to whether you can have one in your own garden.
Wind Turbine Anatomy
The wind turbine is a complex system which consists of set of parts which function in synchronicity.
- The tower is the structural support that elevates the rotor and nacelle to a height where wind speeds are higher and more consistent. It also provides a path for electrical cables and access for maintenance (Windmillstech 2024)
- The blades capture the kinetic energy of the wind
- The rotor is the central portion to which blades are mounted (Windmillstech 2024)
- The low-speed shaft connects from the rotor hub to the nacelle
- The gearbox is the mechanical link between the low-speed shaft and the high-speed shaft. It is one of the most expensive and failure-prone components (Windfarmbop 2012)
- The high-speed shaft is connected at the output side of the gearbox
- The generator is the component that converts mechanical rotational energy into electrical energy via electromagnetic induction (Windfarmbop 2012)
- The nacelle is the housing at the top of the tower that encloses and protects many of the turbine’s key mechanical and electrical components (Windmillstech 2024)
How Does a Wind Turbine Work?
Let’s get right into it, no fluff. A wind turbine converts the kinetic energy of the wind into electrical energy. Here’s how the process works step by step:
- Blades capture wind energy – The turbine’s blades are shaped like aircraft wings. As the wind flows over them, it creates lift, causing the rotor to spin.
- The rotor drives a shaft – The spinning rotor turns a low-speed shaft connected to a gearbox inside the nacelle (the top housing).
- The gearbox increases speed – The gearbox converts the slow rotation of the blades into a much faster rotation suitable for power generation.
- The generator produces electricity – The high-speed shaft powers a generator, which converts mechanical energy into electrical energy through electromagnetic induction.
- Power is sent to the grid – The electricity, which is then stepped up in voltage by a transformer before being transmitted to the grid.
In simple terms, wind turbines work by transforming the motion of the wind into clean, renewable power ready for use in homes, businesses, and industries.
Do Wind Turbines Produce AC or DC?
Most wind turbines produce AC (alternating current) electricity, as this is the standard used in power grids. However, the generator often produces variable-frequency AC, which must be converted to a stable frequency before being exported.
For smaller, off-grid applications, DC (direct current) may be used, especially if the system includes battery storage.
What Is the Biggest Problem with Wind Turbines?
While wind power is sustainable and efficient, the technology faces a few challenges:
- Intermittent power generation – Wind speeds vary throughout the day, affecting output.
- Maintenance and wear – Components like gearboxes, bearings, and generators require regular inspection and service.
- Noise and appearance – Some find large turbines visually intrusive or noisy.
- Wildlife concerns – Poorly positioned turbines can impact birds and bats.
Despite these challenges, innovations in materials, monitoring systems, and design continue to make turbines more efficient and reliable every year.
Wind Turbine Maintenance
Proper maintenance is vital to ensure safety, maximise output, and extend the lifespan of a turbine.
At Mawdsleys BER, we provide specialist support for the electrical and mechanical systems that power turbines — from generator repairs to motor rewinds.
Regular wind turbine maintenance typically includes:
- Visual inspections – Checking for corrosion, blade damage, and loose connections.
- Motor and generator servicing – Cleaning, testing insulation, rewinding, and balancing.
- Gearbox maintenance – Lubrication and vibration analysis to prevent wear.
- Electrical testing – Grounding, resistance testing, and circuit verification.
- Predictive maintenance – Using condition monitoring, thermography, and data analysis to prevent faults.
Routine care ensures turbines remain safe, efficient, and capable of generating maximum energy — even in harsh environments. We advise maintenance to be carried out at least two to three times per year, depending on location, size and usage.
If your wind turbine’s generator or drive motor needs repair, contact our team of specialists for expert advice and a fast turnaround.
Can I Have a Wind Turbine in My Garden in the UK?
Yes — you can install a small wind turbine on your property, provided you meet certain conditions.
Key considerations include:
- Planning permission – Some small turbines qualify as ‘permitted development’, but larger installations may require approval.
- Location – You’ll need consistent wind speeds, ideally in open or elevated areas.
- Space and noise – Domestic turbines need sufficient space and clearance from neighbouring properties.
- Return on investment – Assess installation costs against potential energy savings.
For many UK homeowners, small-scale wind systems work best in rural or coastal locations with steady wind conditions.
It can take from 10 to 15 years for a wind turbine to pay itself, but this varies heavily based on a number of factors. These include location, electricity pices, wind speed and the size and cost of the system (Dautel 2024).
How Does Wind Energy Work on a Larger Scale?
When turbines are grouped together, they form a wind farm, capable of generating electricity for thousands of homes. These farms feed renewable energy directly into the national grid, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and lowering carbon emissions.
Wind energy is entirely renewable, producing no greenhouse gases during operation — making it a key player in the UK’s journey to net zero. Just for reference, the net zero sector is expanding three times the rate of the wider economy and has created more than one million full-time jobs (WEForum 2025).
Key Takeaways
- Wind turbines convert wind energy into electrical energy using aerodynamic blades and generators.
- Most turbines produce AC power for grid use.
- Maintenance is essential to reliability and safety.
- You can install domestic turbines in the UK under the right conditions.
Our engineers deliver fast, high-quality service for renewable energy operators across the UK.
References
Dautel, 2024, Is it worth getting your own private wind turbine?, https://www.switch-plan.co.uk/generating-electricity/home-wind-turbine/
UN, 2023, Renewable energy – powering a safer and prosperous future, https://www.un.org/en/climatechange/raising-ambition/renewable-energy
WEForum, 2025, The UK’s net-zero sector is growing faster than the economy, https://www.weforum.org/videos/uk-net-zero-sector-growth/
Windmillstech, 2024, Wind Turbine Components, https://windmillstech.com/wind-turbine-components/
Windfarmbop, 2012, WTG Components: an introduction, https://www.windfarmbop.com/wtg-components-an-introduction/