There is no question that wind turbines have many positive attributes (Turbine Turbulence, editorial - April 7): "They can be assembled quickly and inexpensively compared with many other energy sources such as nuclear plants or hydroelectric dams." And they consume no fuel. But a comparison of wind, to nuclear or hydro, is much like a comparison of the bicycle to the automobile as transportation alternatives.
After all, wind being an erratic source of energy, available around 35 per cent of the time, can't be compared to nuclear or hydro power. While wind turbines can play a small part in the energy supply mix, it's only because steam- and water-powered turbines generate the power required to energize the transmission grid.