Wind power\xa0is the use of\xa0air flow\xa0through\xa0wind turbines\xa0to\xa0mechanically power\xa0generators for\xa0electric power. Wind power, as an alternative to burning\xa0fossil fuels, is plentiful,\xa0renewable, widely distributed,\xa0clean, produces no\xa0greenhouse gas\xa0emissions during operation, consumes no water, and uses little land.\xa0The net\xa0effects on the environment\xa0are far less problematic than those of\xa0nonrenewable power\xa0sources.Wind turbines convert the kinetic energy in the wind into mechanical power. This mechanical power can be used for specific tasks (such as grinding grain or pumping water) or a generator can convert this mechanical power into electricity to power homes, businesses, schools, and the like.