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Efficiency: Difference between revisions
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[[file:Vestas-V90-power-curve.png|thumb|Power curve (power generation versus wind speed) for two Vestas V90 models. They are most efficient at wind speeds of ~11–12 m/s (25–27 mph). At wind speeds of 25 m/s and above (≥56 mph), the wind turbines shut down.]] | [[file:Vestas-V90-power-curve.png|thumb|Power curve (power generation versus wind speed) for two Vestas V90 models. They are most efficient at wind speeds of ~11–12 m/s (25–27 mph). At wind speeds of 25 m/s and above (≥56 mph), the wind turbines shut down.]] | ||
''Efficiency'' is often | ''Efficiency'' is often – incorrectly – confused with ''[[capacity factor]]''. | ||
Thermal plants (e.g., nuclear and coal) are rather inefficient, with around two-thirds of the energy released from their fuel being lost to heat. But they can have a very high capacity factor, particularly if they are used to provide [[Electrical grid|base load]]. | Thermal plants (e.g., nuclear and coal) are rather inefficient, with around two-thirds of the energy released from their fuel being lost to heat. But they can have a very high capacity factor, particularly if they are used to provide [[Electrical grid|base load]]. | ||