Wind Power FAQsexpand/collapse all answers
How do wind turbines work?
A wind turbine collects kinetic energy from the wind and converts it to electricity that is compatible with a home's electrical system. In most cases, a home is served by the wind turbine and a local utility. When wind speeds are low, the needed power is purchased from the utility. As wind speeds increase, turbine output increases and the amount of power purchased from the utility decreases. When the turbine produces more power than the house needs, the extra electricity is sold to the utility. All of this is done automatically.
Should I consider buying a wind turbine?
If you have a property size of one acre or more, live in an area with at least a 10 mph average wind speed and are paying at least 10 cents/kWh for electricity, you should consider the benefits of wind power. The majority of units have been installed in the Northeast and the Midwest.
Will it help the environment if I install a wind turbine at my home or business?
Yes. Wind turbines produce no pollution and helps offset the pollution that would have been generated by your utility company. Over its life, a small residential wind turbine can offset approximately 1.2 tons of air pollutants and 200 tons of greenhouse gases (carbon dioxide and other gases which cause climate change).
How much does a wind system cost?
The costs vary greatly depending on size and local rebates and incentives.
How do wind turbines perform as an investment?
The wind system will usually recoup its investment through utility savings within six to 15 years and after that, the electricity it produces will be virtually free.
Will a small wind turbine save me money?
The wind turbine typically lowers your electricity bill by 50 to 90 percent. The amount of money a small wind turbine saves you in the long run will depend upon its cost, the amount of electricity you use, the average wind speed at your home, and other factors.
How reliable are wind turbines? Are they difficult to maintain?
Most small turbines have very few moving parts and do not require any regular maintenance. They are designed to last up to 20 years and operate completely automatically.
What about towers?
An 80- to 120-foot tower is usually supplied along with the wind turbine. Towers this tall are necessary to raise the wind turbine above turbulence generated by obstacles on the ground and trees. Wind velocity and, therefore wind turbine performance, increases with altitude.
Do wind turbines make noise or interfere with TV reception?
Small wind turbines do make some noise, but not enough to be found objectionable by most people. A typical residential wind system makes less noise than the average washing machine. Wind turbines do not interfere with TV reception.
