Enlarge
#gallery http://daily.stanford.org/image/full/7277
Maggie Skortcheva

Policies for the Development of Wind Energy Professor Nick Jenkins, The University of Manchester

Nick Jenkins, an engineering professor from the University of Manchester and a member of England’s Royal Academy of Engineering, spoke yesterday about the heat and electricity-producing capabilities of wind power.

In order for wind power to become a viable energy alternative, Jenkins stressed the necessity of governmental support in making the new technology more cost effective. But even with the right legislation, engineers and energy developers are still charged with the task of developing wind energy that works.

“Appropriate policies for the electrical power system will not, on their own, stimulate [renewable energy],” Jenkins said, “but poor policies can impede development.”

Despite the risks involved with the advancement of wind energy, Jenkins’ colleagues remain optimistic about the potential of the new technology to decrease dependence on fossil fuels.

“The sky’s the limit in a sense,” said Environmental Engineering Prof. Gil Masters. “Installed capacity is growing 30 to 40 percent per year. Intermittency issues have the potential to be resolved.”

Jenkins cited regulations on the energy sector and governmental cooperation as the two most important developments in making wind energy a more affordable and practical source of energy.

The guest lecturer also said he believes that the popularity of wind energy will increase as people all over the globe become more environmentally conscious.

Civil Engineering Prof. Russell Clough said he hoped Jenkins’ lecture would raise awareness on campus about the potential of alternative energy options.

“[I hope this lecture will] educate the people here about the opportunities [of wind energy],” he said, “and how important it is.”