The World celebrates the power of wind energy on June 15th.
You can't see wind, but you can feel its power. Global Wind Day is a chance for New Zealanders to show their support for a vital link in our energy chain.
There were heaps of entries to the great photo competition on Stuff.co.nz. The winner was Claire Lambert for her simple expression of the wind. She wins a powerful lap top (prize sponsored by EECA).
You can find the winner and runners up photos on our Facebook Page.
We also received a healthy pile of entries for the schools competition. All the winners have been sent their prizes - here are the winners and runners up;
Age 4-8
Age 9-12
Did you know:
- Wind in NZ generates 4% of our electricity – that is enough to power over 10% of our homes
- Our wind will never run out, giving us an independent, secure and low cost source of electricity both now and for future generations
- Wind can help protect electricity prices from volatility in fossil fuel markets - the price and supply of wind is not dictated by political regimes in other parts of the world
- Our wind farms outperform the international average by about 100% because our wind resource is so strong and reliable
- Wind energy is growth industry creating jobs across the country
- Wind will provide a fifth of our electricity needs by 2030, and help us achieve the 90 per cent renewable electricity target
- Wind farms don't change how land is used. A farm continues to operate as a farm and farmers get an additional income stream that helps them to improve farming operations
- Wind energy embodies New Zealand's "100% pure" reputation – no pollution, minimal environmental effects, sustainable use of a natural resource. It supports NZ's desire for clean economic growth.
Find out more about how a wind turbine works and New Zealand's wind farms.
Download "What kind of world do you want to live in?" a children's colouring book