Final answer:
Windmills use turbines to convert the kinetic energy of wind into electrical energy. The spinning of the turbine blades drives a generator which then produces electricity. Wind energy is a rapidly growing, renewable source of power.
Step-by-step explanation:
Windmills convert the kinetic energy of the wind into electrical energy using turbines. When wind moves the blades of the turbine, this mechanical motion spins a shaft connected to a generator. The generator includes magnets and coils of wire and functions similarly to an electric motor running in reverse, which results in the production of electricity. Wind power is a renewable energy source, with worldwide usage growing rapidly each year. Although currently, it contributes to less than 1% of the world's energy needs, the uptake of wind energy is increasing by approximately 30% annually. The kinetic energy harnessed from the wind via wind turbines can also be compared to the similar process used in hydroelectric power plants, where the kinetic energy of moving water is used to generate electricity without producing waste or pollution.