The primary components of a wind turbine include: Rotor Blades: Capture wind energy and transfer it to the rotor. Shaft: Connects the rotor to the generator. Generator: Converts mechanical energy into electrical energy. . A wind energy conversion system has a relatively simple construction that can be operated and maintained by the local population. Historically, wind power was used by sails, windmills and windpumps, but today it is mostly used to generate electricity.