On 4th June we all braved the weather and visited Grouslodge Windfarm near Ardagh. We learned about how the wind turbines generate electricity and got to see the turbines up close. We were amazed at how tall they are. There are six turbines at Grouselodge and we got to visit T2 (Turbine 2). These turbines are 60m tall and are made up of several different parts. The tower is the main structure of the turbine and it provides internal access to the nacelle, which is located at the top. The nacelle houses the generator and other technical components. The foundations for the wind turbines are up to 20m deep. The rotor is made up of three blades, which are shaped like the wings so aeroplanes. As the wind passes over the blades it causes them to lift and the rotor begins to turn. An underground cable takes the electricity from the wind turbines to an ESB substation. The electricity then joins the national grid.
Grouselodge windfarm can provide electricity for more than 9,000 households.
