From the generator, the wind’s electricity goes to the power grid, the system of transmission and distribution power lines that transport electricity to the buildings in towns and cities. In an alternating current power grid, the current changes direction very quickly in cycles. These cycles are known as the frequency. Because of the changing current, you cannot connect a generator to the grid unless the current from the generator is cycling with exactly the same frequency as the grid. When the current cycles match the same frequency, the generator is in phase with the grid. If the currents are not in phase, there can be significant power surges. Power surges can ultimately damage the connection switch and/or the generator and destabilize the surrounding grid. Connecting two lines of alternating current is like trying to jump onto a bike your friend is riding. Unless you are both moving at the same speed and in the same direction, you are likely to miss the bike altogether.

Each wind turbine in a wind farm has its own computer “brain” and control system that is constantly working to regulate energy output and to protect the turbines. Wind farms are controlled and operated through SCADA (supervisory control and data acquisition) systems. A SCADA system monitor everything that is going on in the wind farm: how much each turbine is producing, the temperature inside and outside of each turbine, wind direction, whether lightning has struck a turbine, and if any turbine needs service or repair. In the event the SCADA system detects a problem with a turbine, the SCADA system shuts down the machine automatically and notifies a technician. Controllers inside the turbines also maintain the power quality of the current generated by the wind turbine. Power quality is the stability of frequency and voltage and lack of electrical noise on the power grid.

When everything runs smoothly, electricity flows from the wind farm to the power grid and eventually lights up your house.