This paper describes the construction and way of functioning of the wind turbine and the impact of the wind farm on the environment. Throughout the history of windmills and wind turbines, the development of man's use of energy from the simplest primitive sail to modern technological achievements is visible. The wind potential determined by the speed, direction and power of the wind, and the various methods of its measurement necessary for the construction of a wind power plant are described. The division of wind turbines according to different factors, construction and components of wind turbines and the principle of operation are explained. The impact of wind power plants on the environment is explained: on the climate, soil and animal life, the impact of noise and vibration on human health. The impact of wind turbines on the landscape, the benefits for the local community and the problem of blade waste, which has not yet been solved, are also described. In the last chapter, there is a review of the development of wind power plants in the Republic of Croatia. The share of utilization in the energy balance and an overview of existing wind power plants are presented. An action plan for future wind exploitation is presented.