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<br />Components of a Wind Energy Conversion System <br /> <br />A Wind Energy Conversion System (WECS) is a compilation of several components that act together in <br />.order to use natural occurring wind to convert into electricity. Common components found in a WECS <br />include a nacelle, nose cone, blade, drive train, main shaft, gears, cables, generator, anemometer, and a <br />tower, according to the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA 2003). Traditional technologies <br />include horizontal-axis blades as depicted below. New advents in technology have included vertical-axis <br />blades in an attempt to create a sleeker profile. <br /> <br />Diagram: Inside the nacelle of a utility-scale wind turbine <br /> <br /> <br />Source: http://www1.eere.enerav.Qov/windandhvdro/windhow.html <br /> <br />The components that are applicable in creating a zoning regulation for these units typically include a <br />tower, and blades. When determining heights and setbacks, it is important to include all components in <br />these measurements. <br /> <br />Wind Conditions <br /> <br />Wind conditions on a national scale are ranked on a scale of 1-7 with one being the lowest quality. <br />According to the AWEA, Minnesota has wind conditions ranging from 2-4. Ramsey appears to be in a <br />