'Wind turbines: description, appraisal & alternatives' considers in detail the evidence and arguments for and against wind turbine generated electricity. Although wind generation is the main focus, enough information is given of other forms of generation, both 'conventional' (coal, gas and nuclear) and other 'renewable' (such as solar and hydro), to enable readers to see how wind generation fits in to the UK generation, transmission and distribution system as a whole. The book is aimed at readers with a good knowledge of arithmetic who are interested in the question of why wind turbines are increasingly becoming a feature of the UK land- and sea-scape, as well as those who wish to learn something of the basics of electricity generation and transmission in general. Sufficient detail is given to enable readers with some additional knowledge of mathematics and elementary principles of engineering to pursue these topics in more depth. Basic and more detailed text is colour-coded accordingly. The book is arranged in four parts. Part I is concerned with the technical viability of wind turbines, and after looking at the development of wind turbines from windmills, the construction of wind turbines in terms of their main components (rotor, drive, generator, tower, foundation, etc.), their operation and installation are described, with reference to specific examples of domestic, commercial, and industrial on shore and off shore types. Part II looks at conventional forms of generation, with which wind generation is compared in considering the economic and environmental viability of wind turbine generated electricity in the context of the national generation, transmission and distribution system. Part III goes on to look at other forms of renewable generation, and considers whether other forms of generation, including conventional generation, might constitute viable alternatives to wind in providing future electricity needs. Finally, Part IV presents an overall summary together with a concluding assessment of wind turbine generation, and considers the place of wind generation alongside other forms of generation in scenarios of the generation, transmission and distribution system in the near, mid and far future.