A reliable resource for information about wind power facts, and home wind turbines, is the American Wind Energy Association. The association states that “Wind energy works for America’s economy, environment and energy security.” The stated mission is to “...promote wind power growth through advocacy, communication, and education.” The Board of Directors and advisers hold various positions with energy and renewable energy companies.
Home Wind Power
Electricity can be produced for homes by installing a residential wind turbine. According to the American Wind Energy Association a wind turbine will collect kinetic energy from wind. The turbine coverts kinetic energy into the same electricity suitable for a home electrical system. According to AWEA, “...for a normal residential application a home is served simultaneously by the wind turbine and a local utility.” When the wind generator produces more electricity than needed, the excess can be sold to the utility company. No batteries are required for this system.
To access average wind availability for any area in the U.S. the homeowner can go to the U.S. government’s wind resource map site. Links are provided for each state, and to charts for determining amount of wind needed for each installation. Also, visitors can find out about availability and location of current wind grids.
The AWEA estimates the average energy savings gained by incorporating a wind turbine into a home electrical system “...typically lowers your electricity bill by 50 to 90 percent. It is not uncommon for wind turbine owners with total-electric homes to have monthly utility bills of only $8 to $15 (a month) for nine months of the year.”
Small Wind Turbines
It is best if the home is located on one acre or more due to the size of a small wind turbine according to AWEA. The turbine sits on an 80 to 120 foot tower. It should rise high enough above objects on the ground to lower wind turbulence. With an average home requirement of 9,400 kilowatt-hours per year, a turbine should be rated 5 to 15 kilowatts. Homes on small lots can install a smaller turbine with rotors of one meter or less in diameter, and on shorter towers, according to AWEA. The site provides links to equipment suppliers and contractors.
The cost of a small wind turbine installed ranges from $6,000 to $22,000, according to AWEA. The cost is contingent on size needed, application agreements, and manufacturer service fees.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Wind Energy
The homeowner, after equipment and installation expense, should realize a savings over current electrical rates, according to AWEA. Also, the wind turbine requires little maintenance and should last about 20 years. If the electric company is producing electricity from fossil fuels, the clean energy produced by wind turbines promotes alternative energy conservation and contributes toward the slowing of global warming caused by greenhouse gas emissions.
The United States Department of Energy Wind and Hydro technologies site page lists the following disadvantages:
- Wind availability compared with investment may not be cost competitive.
- Wind energy produced cannot be stored without the use of batteries, and wind may not meet timing of electric needs.
- Noise produced by rotor blades.
- Birds can by killed by rotor blades.
The site also states “...most of these problems have been resolved or greatly reduced through technological development.”
The homeowner is advised to do the research relating to wind availability, cost of wind turbines, and amount of electricity needed. Research the reputation of each manufacturer. Check with the electric utility for integration. Check zoning restrictions, and compare costs with expected electric production.
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