Abstract: Wind energy is a clean, abundant resource of renewable energy. It does not produce greenhouse gases. Economically and technically, the wind is a preferred alternative energy in the current days because of the depletion of mineral resources and deteriorating environment. So the development and utilization of wind energy are accelerating all over the world now. In this article, the causes and characteristics of the wind are described, the valuation method of wind energy reserves and wind energy in China and in the world are presented. In the mean time, the wind power technology, trends and prospects are focused on. In addition, the use of wind energy technology and the present situation are introduced, such as wind power water-lifting, wind-aided sailing and wind power heating.

Key words: Wind energy , Wind energy utilization