Why Wind Generator Power?

Green Power (wind generators, solar power, etc) for your home is a frequent area of discussion and now even the biggest brains in the Eco world seem to agree that it can make a great deal of sense.

Of course, there are the doubters out there, who believe it will never amount to anything and the particular phase of put down is simply - "it will never produce enough power".

Now let's think about that for just a minute and ask ourselves:

Why would Governments around the world be investing Millions of Dollars in assisting Wind Farms and Solar Projects?
Why would they be supporting Low Carbon initiatives?
Why would they be giving grants to households for their own wind generator?
Maybe because they understand that the humble wind generator can make a significant contribution!

The commercial side is all about wind farms, being giant wind turbines generating huge amounts of power by the electricity companies. The domestic side for many areas (including most of North America) is focused on using a wind generator, which is essentially a small wind turbine.

This has many advantages:
Firstly, there is less demand upon the electrical grid system, since the generator is already plumbed into the users home supply
Secondly, there is a large amount of power loss of Alternating Current (AC) over long distances of cable
Finally, the objection to giant turbines is minimized with more individuals opting for a small wind generator

Sadly, the days of cheap energy are gone (you need to accept this as a fact). The cost of generating power is only going to rise. Couple this with our increasing demand for more power for the home gadgets and for business/industry and we have a problem.

Add to this our increasing knowledge about the problems of our warming atmosphere and we all need to act to reduce demand. Couple this with your own wind generator and you are starting to make an impact straight away.

Better still, you get to save some money! Yes, real Dollars back in your pocket rather than be spent with the Electricity Company, all from a simple wind generator in you yard or on your house.

It is easier than you think to build a suitable wind generator

Building a Homemade Windmill

As energy bills are starting to become larger and larger and fossil fuels to diminish, it is very hard to find new ways to boost up the energy production. This means we need to look for alternative ways to generate electricity using solar or window power installations.

Windmills are some of the cheapest ways to create energy. But of course, like any other alternative energy system, it will take some time before it becomes a true money saver. But the great thing is that you do not have to have a house on a great hill in order to set up a windmill. You can do that even in areas where the power of the wind is less than 11 miles / hour. Even a slower speed has proven to bring good results.

In setting up a windmill the main concern are the initial costs. You can set up a windmill at a lower price if you know where to look for. These are the basic steps you need to follow in order to set up a windmill in your home. Get a very good plan and keep in mind the energy quantity you need your windmill to generate. Look only for sturdy components because the wind can generate a lot of damage if the components are not correctly installed. Before you purchase any components, make sure to compare the prices so that you will remain in your budget.

When you are searching for a good windmill plan, follow these features:

Get illustrations: the visual descriptions tend to work better than the text ones. If the windmill project has illustrations, than you will understand it more easily and you will be able to visualize it.

Using an easy language: make sure that the project does not use too much technical information and it is easy to understand.

Descriptions of the components: the home made windmill must be providing detailed textual and visual descriptions. It is highly important that the windmill plan.

Local information: make sure you get the best local equipment. If you are setting up the windmill in another country make sure to respect all the regulations there, otherwise the equipment is useless. So search for a windmill guide that provides relevant equipment information of places that are very close to you.

Make a Wind Turbine - The Easy Way

If you are searching for an easy and simple project to diminish your monthly energy bill by making some of your own electricity, then a wind turbine is your answer. After you know how to make a wind turbine, you can easily build two additional turbines in even less time to triple or double your power and money savings. If you are looking for an straightforward and economicl set of instructions, then there are many resources and plans offered online.

Additional Help and Resources
Wind turbines only require a few components and with a tiny bit of help, you can have one made and fully functional. Many times you can additionally save some additional money by opting for used parts as opposed to new ones.

If you want to know how to make a wind turbine that looks just like the commercial models in very little time then you want to use one of the wonderful in-depth guides available. They cover it all from assembly to how and where to order pieces and all with step-by-step video directions. Many even include a listing of manufacturers to guarantee you get a hold of the components you require with no problems.

Turbine Generator
The first thing you will need to get when first learning how to make a wind turbine is the generator.

The generator is used to convert wind energy instantaneously to electric energy. These generators come in a couple of different versions including DC and AC. You need to decide upon a model of generator based on the use you wish to use it for.

As an example, if you are looking to create a charger for batteries, then you will want a DC generator capable generating a minimum of 15 V. This will allow you the flexibility to charge a wide array of batteries.

You can then use an inverter if you wish to switch your direct current to alternating current for use with your house. Actually, if you wish to power any appliance in your residence, you will need an inverter. A great benefit is that you will be credited by the power company for any unused electricity you happen to produce.

If this is your first time learning how to make a wind turbine then I would recommend you start with a brand new turbine generator. But if you know where to look, you can many times obtain some amazing deals on used ones.

Blades for the Turbine
The next part for you wind turbine is the blades. To achieve the greatest efficiency from your wind power, you will need to choose the right dimensions for the blades.

By revolving the generator too fast as a result of the blades being too little, can result in an annoying noise. You will miss out on the gentler winds and lower efficiency by going with blades that are too big. There can be a lot of trial and error involved for newbies who are first learning how to make a wind turbine for the initial time. If you are a beginner there are several common rules that it is best to follow until you obtain more experience.

It is highly advised that newbies go with a 3 blade system to have both better rotation speed and balance. It could be as effortless as making these blades from easy to come across supplies such as PVC. After the wind turbine has been completed using this method, you can easily trim and fine tune the blades to improve the performance of the system.

And if you choose to purchase a pre-balanced blade set for a little more cash, then you can’t do it wrong. There are many kits obtainable and any company that advertise blades will be able to offer you all of the help you could need on how to make a wind turbine.

The Last Leg
Now that you have almost finished your wind turbine, the final steps are all that is left to accomplish. Now all you want to do is to look for a good mounting location for the wind turbine and wire it up as necessary. You will want to be certain that the wind turbine is not mounted low area where the wind is not abundant. Don’t fret too much though because you will be creating power as long as the blades are spinning. Now take what you have learned about how to make a wind turbine and put it to action by making your own alternative power project.

I hope this article was enjoyable for you. Wind power is a great way to use along or to boost the power generation of for your home solar power system. For more info, take a look at: home solar power system.

Wind Turbines for the Home

Many utilities offer renewable energy electricity to their customers. If you want to go a step further than purchasing renewable energy, you may be able to generate your own renewable energy by installing a wind turbine on your property.

Household wind turbines consist of a tall tower supporting a turbine, the same as you’d see on a large commercial wind farm. Turbine pivots to catch the best wind, and sends the electricity generated to power your home.

The best properties for turbines are larger than half an acre, with a 250 foot radius of unobstructed space to catch the wind. The turbine works best when operating 20 feet above the tallest obstruction, so a property with a 50 foot tree would require a turbine tower of at least 70 feet. Towers can be built to varying sizes, generally between 30 and 150 feet.

To generate enough energy, your property should have an average wind speed of at least 10 mph, although 12 mph is better. Wind speed and frequency can be determined by checking wind maps for your area, contacting local weather stations to obtain records, or hiring a third party to assess your property.

Turbines can supply your home with energy in two ways. First, they can funnel energy into a battery or generator, similar to those used by solar panels. The wind generates electricity which powers your home, and the excess is stored in the battery or generator for use when the wind dies down.

However, many turbines have the advantageous ability to be plugged directly into your existing electrical grid. When the wind isn’t blowing, your utility supplies your home with power. When the wind is blowing, the turbine supplies your home with power. Rather than storing excess power for use later, the energy your home can’t use is sent into the grid, and you will probably get paid for it.

Utilities are required by law to buy power generated by small energy systems – such as a single wind turbine. They do this through an agreement called net-metering, which allows your meter to spin in either direction. If there’s no wind, your meter runs forward, supplying your home with power. If the wind is up and creating more power than you need, your meter runs backward, supplying the grid with renewable energy for which you’ll get credit. Of course, agreements will vary by utility.

If you determine that your property is suitable for a wind turbine, you’ll then need to go through a process with your local planning office, applying for a permit and supplying electrical and engineering information to have your turbine approved. Household turbines are a new resource for property owners, and the permitting process will most likely be new to the planning office. Working together with local offices to establish a permit process for wind turbines will clear the way for others as this technology disperses across the country.

Understanding Site Assessment for Residential Wind Turbines

Assessing the suitability of a site for a residential wind turbine isn't as simple as stepping outside and seeing if the trees are moving. At an opening purchase and installation price of approximately $20,106 USD, consumers need to know, before they proceed, that a viable amount of energy will be generated at the proposed turbine location.

What goal do you have in mind for the system? If you are planning a complete off-grid installation with no power coming from an electric utility, you'll need to consider a set-up that also includes back-up batteries and possibly a fuel-powered generator. Most homeowners are interested in a hybrid system that allows the home to draw partial power from the renewable energy source and the remainder from the electrical utility. Often, any excess electricity generated is sold back to the utility, furthering lowering the home's energy bill.

You will need approximately an acre of land, with the ability to position the turbine about 76.2 meters (250 feet) from the nearest adjacent structure. Optimal locations are on hills and lake or sea shores, but any area free of nearby obstacles, like buildings or trees can be considered. (These elements block the natural flow of the wind, causing turbulence, which degrades the turbine's ability to operate efficiently.)

There is no single kind of wind. Our planet has a general circulation of wind that moves over the entire earth, but synoptic-scale circulations are responsible for smaller, day-to-day changes by region. There are also local winds that are unique to one given place. If you listen to a wind assessor talk, you'll hear them discuss prevailing winds, storm winds, thermal lows, and even "puffs."

It is safe to assume that in most locales the wind begins to increase in frequency and duration in the fall, continues to blow throughout the winter and into spring, with the lowest occurrence in summer. Most places, however, exhibit daily wind peaks each afternoon. Certainly an examination of regional wind maps and annual climate data is integral to a complete wind analysis, but average wind speed data is too limited to completely evaluate a specific turbine site.

This is not to say that a professional wind assessor will not choose a clear, "normal" day with no impending weather events to come out and stand exactly where the turbine will be placed. This will allow for an evaluation of potential sources of turbulence. An anemometer (an extendable pole with rotating cups attached) will be used to take a base, ground-speed reading as well as wind speeds from increasing heights. Ideal conditions to move forward with a turbine project are steady wind speeds of 16-24 kph (10-15 mph).

The site may be completely unsuitable or the wind may be good, but lack constancy, which would indicate the need for more batteries at an off-grid site or a reevaluation of expectations from a hybrid system. In some cases, newer low-speed turbines with low cut-in speeds might be recommended. Lucky homeowners get the go-head. Regardless, there are too many relevant factors for wind site evaluation to be a do-it-yourself project. Consult professional wind turbine companies with qualified assessors to get the best value for your investment in both the short and long term.

DIY Residential Wind Turbines for the Home

Generating renewable energy through wind power is possible for homes and residences with a single wind turbine. Turbine systems, including the poles, installations, and batteries, can cost up to $20,000. For a low cost option, try building one yourself.

Accessing the free power of the wind for generating electricity is possible in many areas. The first step is to determine the average strength and velocity of the wind that blows over the property. If the average wind speed is more than 10 MPH, a wind turbine would be appropriate to install on your property.

Next, look online for some windmill building guides. While the information to build a windmill system yourself isn’t free, it comes from people who are dedicated to the technology, and who’ve spent years perfecting their individual systems. Comprehensive books, including Hugh Piggott’s A Wind Turbine Recipe Book and Off-Grid Living’s Homemade Wind Generator guide, are low-cost, step by step guides that provide valuable information from people who live to build wind power systems.

Common household tools can be used to build your turbine structure, including raising the pole on which your turbine will sit, connecting the turbine to the battery and inverter that will turn it into usable electricity for your home, and general maintenance.

The blades can be made from PVC pipe, plywood, corrugated cardboard, or metal if steel working tools are available. The base and frame of the turbine, and the tail, can be made from the same materials. Also, Honeywell sells turbines through Ace Hardware, which can then be mounted on a pole and connected to the electrical system.

The turbine itself strongly affects the amount of electricity the system can generate. Turbine blades should be the correct length to catch the most average wind; longer blades will generate energy even with slower wind speeds, while shorter blades can create energy faster from strong winds. The turbine should be mounted high enough in the air to be unobstructed by trees, buildings, and hills, in order to catch the strongest winds.

The turbine will be connected to the home via electrical wires that feed into a battery, which is where the energy will first be stored. The battery can be powered by regular AA batteries or NiMH (nickel-metal hydride) batteries. In order for the energy generated by your windmill to be used by your home, it will need to be converted using an inverter.

If you plan to meet the entire home’s electricity usage needs with the wind turbine, your wind power system is complete. If you’ll be supplementing renewable wind power with electricity from your utility, you’ll need to connect the turbine system to your electric grid. Once connected, the grid will take in any extra energy generated by the wind turbine during times of strong wind, and will provide electricity to your home when winds are slow.

A comprehensive wind turbine DIY guide can provide specific plans and instructions for the builder. A DIY wind power system is a great way to save money for those mechanically inclined people, and it’s also a great opportunity to use salvaged and recycled materials for your renewable energy needs. The DIY wind turbine system won’t, in all likelihood, achieve efficiencies above 1000 KW capacity, but the opportunity is there for your household’s electrical needs to be fully met with renewable energy.

Expectations of Residential Wind Power Systems

Energy is a magical thing. It provides the light for our homes and streets, refrigeration for our food, hot water for our showers and washing, and a host of other essential tasks. Our energy use in the U.S. is high, and we depend on standard, non-renewable sources for much of our fuel and electricity. As Americans and their government focus more on renewable energy, entrepreneurs and companies pop up to meet our needs.

The many companies providing wind power technology and set-up around the U.S. have claims of efficiency, ratings for noise, and other guidelines which make their product superior in some way to others. The technology for wind power systems has been rapidly advancing, so it may seem to the consumer that an axial turbine blade could be much more efficient than a vertical blade, for instance.

The truth is that most wind power technology is similar in efficiency at the household level, so no singular type of turbine, tower, or battery outpaces others. If you carved your wind turbine blades from an online guide, or you bought the most expensive fiberglass blades on the market, either way you’re purchasing blades that spin. Much more important to the efficiency of the wind turbine is the speed of the wind and the diameter of the blade.

There are no set guidelines for wind plant ratings as of yet. The manufacturers may set their own ratings and peak power ratings based on the wind speeds of their choice. This means that a wind plant boasting high efficiency and return could be rated based on 20 MPH average wind velocity. If your location has 12 MPH average wind velocity, the efficiency of the plant for you will be much less.

The numbers to use for deciding on a wind power system all lie on the power production curve. The graph consists of a steeply sloping curve which shows the amount of energy produced by small increases in wind velocity. Find the average wind speed for your property on the curve, and this will give you the amount of energy you can expect to generate from that particular wind plant.

Wind Powering America and the American Wind Energy Association are both websites which provide a lot of consumer information for individuals interested in installing a wind turbine on their property. The websites include manufacturer’s guides and a some advice on what to ask them. Since most, if not all, potential wind plant buyers are first time customers, the terms and ratings for available products may seem overwhelming, and these sites strive to bring knowledge to the consumer so the wind plant can be efficient and successful.

It’s a good idea to form expectations for wind power systems before beginning the process of purchasing one. You can expect that most systems have the same efficiency, and that manufacturer’s guidelines are set to high wind speeds that may not be achievable in your location. Also, wind power systems are investments that will take years to return on your investment. Any system claiming to return on investment faster, or to produce very high amounts of energy in a short period of time, are probably scams. If such a technology were developed, it’d be big news.

Where to Buy a Residential Wind Turbine

Making a large purchase such as a wind turbine system requires careful research. To choose a manufacturer and installer, take referrals from others who own turbines and check trusted directories like the American Association of Wind Energy (AWEA)’s list of Small Wind Turbine Equipment Providers. Look for companies in your state if possible to reduce shipping costs and delays in repair calls.

Stop! Have You Had a Wind Assessment?

Wind quality is the number one factor in an efficient wind power system. The higher the wind speed, the more energy can be generated. Have the turbine installer or a private assessor do a wind survey on the exact spot your turbine will stand. Wind patterns differ by area and height, and are effected by turbulence and interference, so be certain of favorable wind speeds before making a purchase.

Get Bids and Answers to Specific Questions

It’s always a good idea to get multiple bids on large home construction projects. Get three bids or estimates from different companies, and ask them for additional information to determine whether they’re the right company for you. Helpful information that your turbine installer should be able to provide includes:

The annual potential output of the turbine at the wind speeds assessed on your site.

Where the annual output was measured. Some manufactures use a lab to test wind output, while others erect turbines outside and take measurements from them. Outdoor measurements are probably more accurate.

The aspects of your site that could affect potential output. Some examples include tall trees which could obstruct wind speeds, seasonal impacts, and site elevation.

Learn the amount of time the company has been in business, and how long the turbine model has been for sale. Turbine technology is exploding these days, so some models on the market may not have had the long term field testing that older models have.

Ask for contact information from the company’s customers so you can talk with them about actual turbine performance. The people who are using the turbines are the best resource you can find.

Talk with the manufacturer and the company’s customers about repair and safety issues. You’ll want to know what to expect in terms of maintenance on your turbine, and what repairs you can safely do yourself.

Do Your Own Research and Consider Your Options

The internet is a wonderful tool when making a big purchase. Online independent reviews of different turbine models and manufacturers is more than likely available. Choose the turbine and installer with the best bid and the best reviews.

Choosing the right equipment for your wind power system can take extra time if you’re installing the system yourself. When you assemble your own turbine using parts from multiple suppliers, you’ll need to research even more carefully to make sure all the components are compatible. There are many online sites and boards to help the DIY wind turbine installer. Still, the process takes additional time, and requires extra care in preparation.

There are books and sites online that walk a self-installer through the process of building and installing their own wind turbine. Many of these sites provide a wealth of experience and information on equipment, zoning laws, wiring and safety codes, mistakes, and triumphs. The information can be helpful, and many times free, but it’s also more casual than a turbine manufacturer would be. Make doubly sure you’ve got the process down before beginning any kind of construction.

Become well versed in the wind turbine industry before making any purchases. Make sure you’ve had your site wind data assessment and talk with utilities and zoning agencies who will be involved in the installation process. Find the wind power system that will maximize output for your specific area, and you’ll realize big energy savings.

Are Wind Power Generators Your Best Choice for Renewable Energy?

Wind power generators are one of many ways you can lower your energy bills and stay environmentally friendly at the same time. With the recently booming renewable energy market, there are now several alternative ways to supply your house, farm or commercial building with light and electrical power, without fainting whenever electricity bill comes!

Wind power generators can help cut your energy bills, and provide you with pollution free energy. You might be also getting a tax-break for investing in ecological solutions as well. Wind energy has some significant benefits, but it also has some disadvantages.

Is Wind Power Available in Your Area?

Before you make up your mind about installing a generator, there is some research you will need to do in order to decide whether it is the best option for your renewable energy needs.

First, you'll need to know whether using wind energy is the best choice for your location. Depending on which country you live in, look for your governments department of energy and see what kind of information you can learn about your location. If you are in the United States, look at the US Department of Energy's Wind Map and check weather you are living in a good place to use wind energy.

As you know, wind is a force of nature, and it differs in every area. If there is very little or no wind where you live, you can drop the whole idea from the very beginning!

If that is the case, don't give up, as there are likely other types of renewable energy that may be better suited to your location.

Wind Energy Requires a Backup Power Source

Even if you live in a very windy place, you will need to secure yourself with another energy source that is not environmentally dependent like solar energy.

Wind comes and goes, just like sunny days and cloudy days, and there is nothing anybody can do about it! With the new renewable energy technologies available today, if your wind turbine is not hooked up to your local electric grid, then unused electricity can be saved in a battery for use when the wind is gone.

If you are connected to your local electric grid, then you will be able to draw upon their electrical power when the wind is not blowing, and you can get credits for excess power that is generated on windy days when the wind produces more energy than you need.

Disadvantages of Wind Power Generators

One problem that very few people talk about is that wind generators can be noisy and can influence television reception. Some research has even indicated some kinds of physical effects from living close to wind generators.

Some people who live near wind farms have complained about sleep disorders, headaches, panic attacks and other illnesses that were caused by vibration and low-frequency noise. The sound frequencies appear to affect the inner ear and over a long period time.

The appearance "wind turbine syndrome" suggests that wind farms should be located at a distance from where people are living so they are not affected by the long term effects of the low frequency noise and vibration.

Residential Wind Power?

Wind technology is not just for big farm owners. Depending on your local zoning laws, you may be able to install small-scale wind turbine on the top of your house. It's like a large fan on the roof! You need to live in an area with an average wind speed of no less than 5 meters per second for the device to be effective, and your building needs to be rather exposed, rather than connected to other structures.

Once you install a wind turbine make sure you use it the most efficient way possible. For example, you can do your laundry on windy days and charge the batteries whenever it's possible.

Getting a wind powered generator might appear pricey, but you will eventually recoup your investment from the energy savings you enjoy. If the cost is the only thing that is keeping you away from trying wind power, look around for government grants.

Build a Wind Turbine At Home

Believe it or not, if you want to build a wind turbine, you will find the whole process to be a very simple one.

With the help of a step-by-step guide, the process of building a wind turbine is made a whole lot easier. There are many great designs and guides to choose from today. Many of these have been designed especially for those who live in third-world nations around the globe. They are developed for people who do not have a lot of money to spend and have hard problems finding the right materials to construct with. For those who live in the rest of the world, making these wind turbines is even easier.

Before you build a wind turbine though, you will need to learn a little bit about the process of generating power from the wind. The first and most important part of this process is that you need to have a steady wind. This wind cannot be choppy or full of turbulence either. The next biggest part of building your own wind turbine comes down to the individual windings of the generator itself.

When you choose to build a wind turbine, you have to pay close attention to the windings. If you use too large of wires, then you will create a lot of back EMF which can prevent the turbine from spinning freely. If you use too small of wire, then you cannot produce enough power from the available wind. Using a multiple phase winding will help to reduce this back EMF and allow you to use larger wire in the process. The number of turns in each coil of wire will determine what voltage your generator produces and the number and location of the coils will determine the frequency of the voltage in a given wind speed.

While being an easy process, you have to think ahead before you begin to build a wind turbine. Take into account the available wind in your area as well as other possible variables which can affect your ability to produce usable electricity at home.

Don’t forget that the size and shape of the blades will play a crucial role in the output of the turbine as the blades are responsible for converting the lateral force of the wind into the rotational force needed to spin the generator. Most of all though, every wind turbine needs to be able to break away or turn away from the wind in the event that a large gust hits it in order to prevent any possible damage to the generator and its components.

Build a Wind Generator of Your Own

If you want to save money and tackle a real project, then why not build a wind generator of your own?

Ok, so you think that building a wind generator is some sort of difficult task that is better left to large manufacturing facilities; but you are seriously wrong. In third-world countries all over the globe, people have been making homemade wind generators using regularly available parts to help offset high energy costs. If someone in the third-word can do it with rustic tools and very little know-how, then you should be able to build a wind generator that is ten times more efficient.

Imagine being able to sell your electricity to the power companies instead of having to buy it from them. This is not a dream, many people all over the globe are already doing it. Legislation in many nations allow homeowners like yourself to produce their own power and sell the excess to the electrical companies without the need for an expensive power plant license. If you have a large enough parcel of land, and plenty of wind, then you could potentially make a living simply by selling your electricity back to the grid.

Of course there will always be those who will complain about the wind generators blocking the natural view of the countryside, but you do after all have a right to peaceful possession of your own property and the right to do with your land as you see fit. With that said, what’s stopping you from building your very own wind generator?

Maybe you just do not have the time, or maybe it is because of the costs; these are just excuses though. As for the time, it is suggested that when you build a wind generator, that you take each step slowly to ensure that it is completed properly and is of the best possible quality. The more you rush, the greater the chances are that you will make a mistake in the generator’s construction. As for the costs, building your own generator is much cheaper then purchasing a commercially built unit.

Start today by finding a set of plans that will give you in-depth detail to the construction of your first wind turbine. After you have completed this first one, then you can take that information, knowledge and experience and design a much better and more efficient unit.

DIY Wind Generator Construction

Before you begin your DIY wind generator project, you need to learn the ins and outs of design and construction of a wind turbine.

Don’t worry, its not rocket science; although it can be in some situations. In general, the design and development of a DIY wind generator is simple and straight forward. The only real complexities in the design phase have to do with how much power you can feasible generate with a given wind speed and purity in your area.

This is a little more difficult to explain, but the maximum amount of power you can get out of a wind generator will depend on many factors that can either work in unison or against each other. The first factor is the wind itself. You really need a stead source of wind locally and this wind needs to be as pure as possible in order to generate any usable wind. The concept of wind purity has to do with the amount of turbulence in the wind as turbulence can create many hassles with the operation and efficiency of a wind turbine.

The second factor has to do with capturing that wind and converting its lateral force into a rotational one. If only a DIY wind generator could use the lateral forces of the wind directly. Unfortunately, you generator will need to spin and in order to convert these forces, you need blades that are designed for your particular generator and circumstances. The blade needs to be designed for collecting the wind and therefore electric fan blades will not be efficient at all.

Finally you have what is known as back EMF. If you have ever tried to turn a high-torque electric motor and felt those lobbed parts of the rotation, this is back EMF. As magnets pass one coil, the other coils become charged and magnetized. This force can prevent the DIY wind generator from spinning. Many builders opt to construct this generators using multiple phases so as to separate this back EMF and reduce its potential to create friction in the turbine system.

Furthermore, the coils themselves are dependent upon the gauge of the wire used in their construction. The larger the diameter of the wire used, the more power that can be created but at the same time, the more back EMF that is generated. The smaller the wire, the more freely the DIY wind generator is capable of spinning, but as a result the less power that the system is able to produce with a given wind speed.

If you take the time to learn more about these individual concepts, then making a DIY wind generator will be so much easier.

Wind Turbine Generator - In The Making

For many people, the addition of a wind turbine generator to their home is an excellent idea. The biggest problem is the costs associated with purchasing a commercial wind turbine.

If you are like most people, then the choice of installing a wind turbine revolves around money. To save in your electric bill on a monthly basis is a very novel concept. But recovering the costs of purchasing a commercial unit in a year or less may be out of most people’s budgets. If you are pondering whether to build one yourself, then you will need to start by knowing how a wind turbine generator is made.

There are two major components to a wind turbine generator. The first of these is obvious, and that is the generator which produces power you can use in your home. The other component is the blades which are responsible for transforming the winds energy into a rotational force to drive the generator.

The blades, or propellers, are designed to capture the forward force of the wind and turn it into a rotational force. The more wind that the blades can catch, the more power the generator is capable of producing. In order to capture more wind though, there are two main factors that need to be taken into account. The first of these is the size of the blades themselves. The larger the blades, the more wind they can catch. The second factor is the shape of the blade. Some blade shapes are great for pushing wind, but not so good at collecting it. You cannot simply connect your electric fan blades to your wind turbine and hope for the best.

As far as the generator goes, you have two variations that are used today. The first is the common brush generator which is built in almost the same fashion as any household electric motor. The second is a pancake style generator which is most commonly referred to as an alternator. It is built without any brushes at all and is the most commonly used generator in homemade wind turbine setups.

In most cases, the alternator for a wind turbine generator is wired with 3 phases. This is done to reduce the back EMF the system receives when rotating. Too much back EMF can prevent your turbine from spinning at all in low wind conditions. The production of power is as a result of the rare neodymium earth magnets used in the generator’s construction.

A moving magnetic field creates an electrical current. As the blades rotate, they are connected to a disk which has permanent magnets attached to it. The wire-wound portion of the unit stands still and does not rotate at all. As each magnet passes over a winding coil, a charge is either sent or received through the coil depending on whether the North or South end of the magnet is facing the coil.

The multiple phases are then converted to direct current and combined into a single DC output which can then be connected to a power inverter and used inside the home.

There are of course many other things you will want to learn about producing your own power at home with a wind turbine generator, but these basics should get you started on the right path.

Build Home Solar Panels and Wind Turbines For Home is Now Possible, Easy and Inexpensive!

During recent years the issue of climate changes has gained a large audience and importance in all countries of the world.

This is very simple to understand, everywhere we see the consequences of that changes: Floods, unusual temperatures in many countries, droughts, etc.

Is not unknown to anyone the causes of these phenomena: The indiscriminate use of highly polluting fossil fuels such as petrol, gas, diesel, etc.

During the last years, have been developing alternatives of clean and renewable energy sources, the most popular: Solar energy and wind energy.

The technology has advanced so much, and today exist in the market many options under the scheme of "do it yourself" guides that offer teach you how to build a solar panel or wind turbine for your home.

Of course, if you are not the kind of person how likes the "Do It Yourself" guides, you always can hire some technician guy who will do the "dirty" work for you.

Today, is entirely up to us, no more cost or technology excuses!

We will review the 4 main components of a photovoltaic system or solar panel system:

1.-Solar cells.-

Are a component of the photovoltaic system, are extremely fragile, not electrically isolated and have no mechanical support, so, once made, should be assembled in the proper way to form a single structure rigid and hermetic: Photovoltaic panel.

Solar cells should be equal. Are electrically connected to each other in series and / or parallel, so that the voltage and current supplied by the panel is increased to fit the desired value.

2.-Photovoltaic panel:

Modules or panels are the main elements of any PV System (Photovoltaic system for short) and its function is to capture the incident solar energy to generate electricity.

Most of the solar panels are constructed first by associating cells in series to achieve the desired voltage level and then combining in parallel a number of associations of cell lines to achieve the desired current level.

3.-Batteries

Batteries or accumulators are used to accumulate the energy that the panels generate daily and to be used in time where energy consumption is higher than the generated, as at night.

Another important function of the batteries is to provide a current higher than the photovoltaic device can deliver. This is the case of an engine which in the boot time can use a current of 4-6 times its rated current for a few seconds.

Moreover, the battery provides a stable and constant voltage independent of the incident light conditions, which may be the most suitable for the operation of electrical appliances.

4.-Charge controllers:

Bearing in mind that solar energy is variable and seasonal, it is extremely important to have a device to control the relationship established by battery and the generator system (PV Panel).

Suppose that consumption is equal for all days of the year. To calculate the required number of solar modules, must be based on winter radiation to ensure the proper functioning of the system, because that is the worst time of solar radiation of the year.

But when summer arrives, the value of radiation can be duplicated, so that production will be twice that calculated for the winter, while consumption is the same. If we do not have a regulatory system, there would be an excess supply that would be able to boil the electrolyte with the consequent loss of water and deterioration of the group accumulator (battery), because the charge is not regulated.

Regulator or charge controller is the device that manages the direct consumption of the plates of the batteries, and avoids overloads or deep discharge, thus extending its life. It also generates alarms based on the state of the charge.

Regulators are installed between the generator and battery system, taking from these last one the energy it needs for its operation.

If you are interested in build your own solar panel for your home or your wind turbine for less than $200 each, and therefore save money (reducing or cutting at all your electrical bills) and help to improve the environment, if so, visit my site and find how:

Advantages of Wind Turbines

Wind energy has not seeped into the main grid of electricity consumption where large scale economies and population exist. None the less the possibilities of this eco-friendly and renewable source of energy are being expanded beyond its existing limits. The reason being that, onshore wind energy produced by large turbines, integrates into almost 10% of the total electricity produced in certain regions of Denmark, Germany, Spain and Sweden. Ideally speaking wind energy is gaining popularity but at a very scattered and slow rate. Probably because not all onshore areas receive adequate amounts of persistent winds so as to propel the turbines for continuous electricity supply.

Also wind electricity cannot be transferred to distant regions and thus has to be distributed to the sectors near the turbine. On the other hand offshore wind turbines receive a lot more supply of wind and electricity. However, only areas closer to the offshore are able to utilize its benefits, unless of course electric transmission lines are built that reach the big cities. What we do need to consider is that even small steps at reducing pollution, green house gases and non-renewable energy can help make earth cleaner for all. Here are some of the main advantages of wind turbines that make them logical substitutes, to conventional sources of electricity.

Benefits of Wind Turbines

    * Wind energy is clean and it does not produce carbon dioxide, or other pollutants.
    * Unlike nuclear power grids, wind energy does not need to deal with radioactive substitutes or have to face possible dangers of radioactive exposure and leakage. All wind turbines need is wind and a foundation to be placed upon.
    * Neither is the entire cost of construction and installation of a wind turbine, anywhere close to those expended by governments for thermal as well as nuclear power plants.
    * Wind energy provides sufficient electricity to power hundreds of houses in a given sector.
    * These turbines do not require fuel or other substitutes so as to keep them running properly. As mentioned before all it needs is wind supply.
    * Wind energy produces more electricity with the increase in the size of the turbines as well as the supply of winds.
    * It can always be used as back up when due to extreme situations, thermal electricity is unavailable.
    * Wind is free! So, apart from the initial installment expenses, the rest is all yours to benefit from.
    * While the turbines may look mighty, the base of the turbines needs very little space to be stationed at.
    * Since 2007, there are smaller wind turbines available which can be installed by individuals on the roof tops of their houses similar to how solar panels can be fitted. This ensures that clean electricity is perpetually being produced as well as consumed, for manufacturing business or even basic sustenance.
    * Contrary to popular misconceptions, wind turbines are a necessity for both the developed, developing as well as the underdeveloped countries of this world.
    * Remote areas where it is difficult for electricity to reach, can instead opt for wind electricity for their basic needs.

Disadvantages of Wind Turbines

    * While wind turbines are being modified through newer technology, it seems that they create a lot of noise pollution.
    * In most countries a legal permit is required so as to be able to set up a wind turbine in any area, which depends on the zoning bylaws, environmental assessments for larger wind turbines, liabilities and insurance which require basic precautions be taken so as to ensure that the safety and technical necessities are followed.
    * Wind is not constant. The supply depends on weather conditions. Therefore it cannot be relied on completely in areas where blowing wind is not at a constant high velocity.
    * The required transmission lines haven’t been installed that can make it possible for offshore electricity to be delivered to bigger cities.
    * Wind turbines are more likely to get damaged due to lightning bolts, in warmer climates.
    * The initial cost borders on unaffordable for many individuals.
    * Some claim that these wind turbines cause harm to birds and bats.

Well, if the truth be told, normal levels of pollution and toxins end you doing a lot more damage to the environment which, cannot even be quantified. The advantages of wind turbines are far greater than its disadvantages. So to speak even in the long run, the benefits are far greater. When combined along with solar energy for electricity, there might just come a time when we would no longer need polluting and toxic means for producing electricity. Every step counts in making earth greener, so take your's today.

Marine Wind Generator

To truly transform our economy, protect our security, and save our planet from the ravages of climate change, we need to ultimately make clean, renewable energy the profitable kind of energy. ~ Barack Obama

Indeed, with conventional sources of energy facing a future of depletion and also burdening the environment with unsavory consequences, the moment is ripe to seriously consider switching to alternative sources of energy, that are renewable and wreak lesser environmental havoc than their conventional counterparts. Proof of this line of thought can be seen nowadays in the form of construction of hydroelectric power stations, solar energy harvesting, and wind farming. Speaking about the latter, wind farming as an alternative means of producing power, mostly for non-domestic purposes, has been, in part, adopted by a lot of countries all over the world including Germany, Canada, Spain, China, Denmark, Netherlands, India, the United States, Japan, Sweden, Portugal, Norway and the United Kingdom.

What is a Marine Wind Generator?

Now, before we talk about marine wind generators, let's understand the basics of wind power generation first. A wind generator is typically in the form of a wind turbine that transfers wind energy that makes their blades move to a power collection system of medium voltage. This medium voltage is then converted to high voltage by transformers located at a substation. This is the conventional design of a typical wind generator, in which the propellers on each turbine is attached to an electric generator. The rotational motion caused by wind is converted into a kind of thrust, which is transmitted for conversion into high voltage electric energy, as mentioned previously. Now, coming to the topic of marine wind turbines or generators, these power generators work on the same principles as mentioned previously with regards to traditional wind turbines. However, the only point of difference is that these wind generators are located offshore, i.e. either installed along the coastal areas or on-board boats, ships and fishing vessels.

Marine Wind Generators for Boats and Other Vessels

If you live near a coastal area, where commercial vessels are either docked or frequent the waters, you must have seen those fans on board those vessels and wondered what they could be. Obviously, they're not for giving the sailors access to more fresh air, with the open surroundings and the generous sea breeze giving no cause for complaint! Well, these fans are nothing but portable wind turbines that generate wind power that is used to charge batteries and power appliances on-board the vessel! You see, a lot of commercial vessels, especially those involved in fishing activities, spend a number of days or even weeks at a stretch out in the seas, and in such a case, a regular power supply is nothing short of a blessing! With the powerful sea breeze abounding all around, what could be a better source of energy for powering the vessel and various applications and appliances on-board?

However, a few things need to be kept in mind when contemplating upon installing a wind generator on-board a vessel. Firstly, the amount of power generated depends primarily upon three factors – size of the generator, number of blades on it, and the cube of the wind velocity. The larger the generator and more the number of blades on it, the more the amount of energy it will generate. Also, greater the velocity of the wind, higher the thrust and resulting energy that will be generated. For the latter purpose, it is necessary to keep moving the boat on the water so that the propellers experience more aerial thrust.

A new type of wind generator, the Windbelt, is under development, which is in the form of an aeolian harp that captures wind power through the movement of the strings caused by strong gusts. With the increasing cost of conventional power, wind power is steadily gaining popularity, and can be used for domestic purposes as well. Blueprint for designing wind power generation systems that can run entire towns are well on their way, and we can expect such a phenomenon in a decade from now, if the plan is pursued with austere sincerity.

Residential and Solar Wind Systems: What Are the Costs?

Most Texas homeowners considering a solar energy system or residential wind turbine system will quickly face sticker shock. Wind turbine systems can run as high as $65,000 installed. The average cost nationally for a professionally installed solar panel system is about $8 to $9 per watt. A 2 kilowatt (kw) grid-tied system (no battery back up) can run to $16,000. A similar 5 kw system can cost upwards of $40,000. Deep cycle back-up batteries for both wind and solar can add on 20 to 30 percent more. You might be able to save around $2 per watt by doing the work yourself, however, energy efficiency programs may have certification requirements.

But don’t give up!

Because both residential and commercial demand for wind and solar energy is increasing, the technology is improving, there are more manufacturers, and the price is dropping. In the case of solar energy, the cost of an average solar panel in 1980 was $21 per watt (eg: a 15 watt panel would cost $315.00). Today, the average cost is about $2.50 per watt (low =$1.42/watt, high=$3.75). In 25 years, that’s a cost reduction of 90%. Power output capacities have also improved. In 1980, a typical solar panel might put out 22 watts. Now, 100 watt panels are common, if not plentiful. That’s a 450% increase in output. Add to this new enhancements through tracking (a motorized mount tracks the sun through the day to improve efficiency) and concentrating sunlight to extract up to 75% of the sun’s rays that increases efficiency by 1000 times over regular flat panels. Even if incentives aren’t available in your area, any solar or wind energy system installed by December 31, 2010 the Federal Energy Efficiency Tax credit lowers the cost by 30%.

The reason residential renewables are expensive is simple: you are investing in a home-sized power plant. Like any large scale power plant, that’s a long term investment made over the course of 15 to 25 years. And, like any long term investment, you should first take a few minutes to consider your needs and goals:

• How much electricity do you use each day?
• In a rural setting, will it cost more to bring more to bring poles and wires to your home?
• Is your goal to have self-sufficiency while retaining a grid-tie?
• Is your goal a zero-energy home?

In considering these questions, remember home size is irrelevant. The issue is purely how much energy you use because you are going to want a system that can meet your usage needs. A 1,500 square foot home doesn’t use any energy; it’s the people living inside that do.

Figuring your usage

Figuring your usage can be tricky. There is a big difference in watts and watt-hours. The power (watts) required to run things in your house is not measured the same way as your utility bills show (watt-hours). A 50 watt light bulb burns 50 watts of power each time it’s turned on. So the electricity supply has to be able to provide that 50 watts of power when the light is turned on. If you have a 30 watt battery, the 50 watt bulb won’t light all the way and quickly run down the battery. Watt-hours, meanwhile are the units of measurement of energy used over time. So, a 50 watt light bulb will consume 50 watts per hour (or even 50 watts per second if you are measuring in seconds). To use an analogy, let’s say we are using a waterwheel that only turns when the water pressure is 50 pounds per square inch (psi). However, the amount of water we use is measured in gallons per hour.

The important thing to remember is that watts and watt-hours are NOT interchangeable in making your calculations.

That being said, the way to determine your usage is to review your utility bills. For example, let’s say you use an average of 1000 kWh per month. That divides out to 33.33 kWh per day. The next step is to find out what electrical appliances and devices you are using, how many watts they consume, and how long do you use them. To compute kWh of a device or appliance, multiply the watts times the hours it runs during the day. A 500 watt chest freezer running for ten hours will use 2kWh of energy. If you only know the voltage and amps an appliance is using, there are lots of web sites that calculate wattage.

Now that you’ve got an idea about your usage, let’s first look at the costs of off-grid solar energy.

The next thing to look up is the amount of direct sunshine your location receives. Otherwise known as "insolation", it is controlled by the angle of the sun, the weather, atmosphere, elevation, and location on the globe. The further north or south from the equator you go, the fewer hours of insolation. In Texas, insolation amounts vary from 4.5 to 5 hours.

Now we can see how many panels you may need. A very handy tool is the Solar Panel Estimator. Assume your insolation hours equal 4.5. The system efficiency is a product of the efficiency ratings of the current handling hardware: inverter (to convert 12 volts DC to 120 volts AC and smooth it into a nice, clean 60 hertz cycle), a battery charge controller, and the deep cycle batteries. Inverters typically run about 95%, charge controllers at 98%, and batteries at 80%. So, if we multiply .95 × .98 x.80, we get a system efficiency of .74 or 74%. That means our 100 watt solar panels actually produce 74 watts. If we compare the output from the Solar Panel Estimator, if our system was 99% efficient, we would only need 74 panels. Since our system is only 74%, we need 99 panels to make 33 kWh/day.

Either way, that’s a very large number of panels, and a lot of money, also.

Lighten your load

The easiest thing to do is find ways to cut your electrical use by eliminating inefficient devices. In Texas, the biggest home energy user is air conditioning. A 30 ton central air conditioning system with a SEER rating of 13 can use 2.3 kWh. Over ten hours, that adds up to 23 kW — 2/3 of our electrical load. There are different energy efficient ways of cooling your home. Swamp coolers, for example, work through evaporation though are most efficient in dry environments. Absorption chillers are common alternatives. They heat refrigerant at low pressure until it evaporates, then it loses its heat through condensing back into a fluid at high pressure. The heat source can be natural gas, propane, kerosene, or solar heat. Because there is no compressor to supply pressure, the system uses little energy.

The second biggest user is the electric hot water heater. Heating water in your home accounts for 17% of annual energy costs. A 40 gallon heater uses an average of 8 kwh/day. There are several energy efficient alternatives: change to a heat on demand system, use natural gas or propane to heat your water, or consider a solar water heating system in addition to your solar panels. Some solar water heating systems are nothing more that an old water heater tank painted flat black and housed in an insulated box with a glass window facing the sun.

Consider switching to energy efficient alternatives and/or Energy Star rated appliances. How many lights do you use in a room and do they have CFL bulbs? Can you change from a desktop computer to a laptop or tablet? Honestly take into account any energy-wasting behaviors such as leaving lights on all day or running the air conditioning while baking. Also, think about how well insulated and weather-sealed your home is and whether it needs improving. The less energy you can live without means the less energy-generating capacity you will need to install.

Let’s say that we’ve installed more efficient appliances and lights, replaced the water heater and air conditioner systems with a solar absorption chilling system that heats water also. That brings down the usage from 33 kWh/day to 5 kWh/day. Plugging the numbers into the Solar Panel Estimator, we arrive at 16 panels, which is much more manageable.

Home wind energy has come a long way from when the steel-bladed fan-type windmill was introduced to American farms in the 1870s. Small wind turbines that generate electricity are available in a range of sizes ("nameplate capacity") from roof or chimney-mounted 1 kilowatt (up to $7,000 installed) all the way up to 100 kilowatt turbines mounted on their own tower (about $80,000 installed). Many of those below 1.2 kilowatts are available in kits for the do-it-yourself-homeowner from a home center.

However, while the power output from wind turbines might look appealing, getting the most watts for the buck is more complicated than solar power. While the sun shines everyday even when its cloudy, the wind is far more fickle. Some parts of the country are also windier than others; compare Abilene with Houston, for example. Consequently, a consumer needs to do far more research to determine how much wind might really be available for them to harness. Wind speed varies locally at different elevations. While it might seem to be a light breeze at street level, it might be a dead calm at 30 feet up or even blustery at 100 feet. Hills, river valleys, trees, and buildings also have a big effect on wind speed especially when coupled with urban settings. Local building codes and other rules must also be considered.

Let’s say you want to add a pole-mounted residential wind turbine to your system. The turbine cost $1800 on-line with free shipping. The 30 foot pole, also purchased on-line with guy wires and a few bags of concrete cost $500. The total cost comes to $2300. Factor in the Federal Energy Tax credit and the price drops to $1610.

Let’s also say you’ve done your homework on local average yearly wind speed. The new wind turbine will generate 3.4 kWh per day in an average 12 mph wind zone (Class 4). However, the local average wind speed is only about 10 mph (Class 2). So we now calculate that with these conditions will produce an average of 2.8 kWh per day (about the equivalent of 8 solar panels).

By combining wind and solar together, you have an intregrated renewable system that becomes a reliable source of home electrical energy 24 hours a day, generating an average of 5 kWh/day. In some parts of Texas, like Austin, where net metering is available, a homeowner can sell their excess generated power to the utility company.

What about hidden costs like maintenance and replacing worn parts?

Maintenance is minimal for both solar panels and wind turbines. Solar panels directly convert sunlight to electrical energy. To ensure they get the most power, they might periodically need to have dust and leaves hosed off. Solar panels do wear out over time, losing on average a watt of generating capability over 20 years. Wind turbines usually only have 2 moving parts that are exposed to the weather. Blades are typically bolted onto the hub which is protected by a nose cone. There is also the pivot that allows the wind turbine to swivel into the wind. Both of these can easily be replaced with parts from the manufacturer.

Something smaller: the Grid-Tied System

A grid-tied solar/wind system retains a connection to the utility grid. That means you will still be a utility customer but you will offset the energy you use from the utility by making your own. Right now, a Texas homeowner can walk into their favorite home center and buy a solar power kit that will generate about 1230 watts for home use for around $7,000 (10 panels, power cleaner, and inverter). Deep cycle storage batteries can also be added to a system; they generally cost about $250/each and last ten years.

On average, these panels alone would make about 4kWh for daily use and knock off 120 kWh from the monthly bill for a savings of up to 12% for a typical 1000 kWh bill of $119 (11.9 cents/kWh) that means a monthly savings of about $14.24 or $171.36/year.

Assuming prices and usage remained frozen, the system would pay for itself in 17 years or 24 years without the Federal Tax Credit. That assumption, of course, is ridiculous. Energy prices spike and the price paid for each kWh will vary during the year, trending higher over time. With this in mind, the return on a solar energy investment might in fact only take 15 years or even less. Plus, consider that 12% energy savings is three times what you’d get from putting that initial $7,000 in a bank.

Another way a solar energy investment pays for itself is by increasing your home’s value. Most home mortgages are for 30 years, yet few consumers live in their homes for that long. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, a home’s value rises $20,000 for every $1000 in reduced yearly electricity costs. So even if you don’t remain in your home for 30 years, you will recoup much of your investment upon the sale of their home. Remember, too, that as solar panel technology improves, the homeowner can swap out old panels for newer, more efficient ones that cost less. These are just bolted onto the rack and plugged into the circuit. Over time you can save even more money on your bill, and even sell energy to the electric company by expanding and upgrading both your panels and batteries.

So what do you do with that money that you are saving every month by not buying electricity from the power company? One Block Off the Grid (1BOG.org) suggests saving the money to send kids to college. By investing in a residential renewable energy system when your children are born, the money you will save in the course of 18 years could grow to over $118,000.

Not all homes and budgets may be cut out right now for solar panels or wind turbines. To get a good idea of how good your location is visit the National Renewable Energy website In My Back Yard. Two other good tools are this e-booklet Feasibility of Photovoltaic Systems and the Solar Cost Estimator.

Wind Power and The Wind Turbine - It’s Not Straightforward

If you fancy a wind turbine and have carried out any research, you will have come across average wind speeds. If you haven’t then google average wind speed calculator. You will be asked to enter either your OS grid reference or your postcode. You are then returned the average wind speed for your location. In my case, and for this example, the average wind speed at 10 metres above ground level is 6.4m/s. Unfortunately though, it would appear that average wind speed is the starting point of a great deal of misunderstanding that is being readily used by the renewable energy installers.

Wind Power takes a bit of thinking about. A wind turbine doesn’t produce a steady amount of power. On our website, 'reality Green' we have an more detailed version of this article that looks at the power supplied by a 5kW Evance R9000 wind turbine. We needed to know how average wind speed compared to what was really happening so we monitored the wind for a period of 6 months over winter when the wind is usually at its strongest. With figures based on the average wind speed the wind power was more than adequate to generate the amount of power we were looking for and it is this figure that is often given out by installation companies. Forget the environment, their calculations demonstrate that you could have a payback in 7 or 8 years, and over the 20 years of the life of feed in tariffs (FITs) you will make a large chunk of money. This sounds like one serious earner. But then we monitored the wind and found out that in reality, we would only generate 5110kWh in a year.

So how did we do it? Wind speed readings were registered every 5 minutes so the amount of actual wind power on any particular day was easy to work out. What the figures showed was quite shocking. Rather than the 11,000kWh of generated power in a year suggested by our average wind speed figure, we only would have achieved 5,110kWh in a full year. That’s less than half. The location (which you can see on our website - reality Green) is an elevated, open site with great exposure to the prevailing winds but even with these plus points, the figure for actual power that would have been generated was less than half. I can only work on the figures I have and intend to obtain data from other sites to see if this is repeated up an down the country. If it is repeated, then I do feel with such a wide difference between the figures being suggested by installation companies and what is actually achievable, then there could be a serious case for mis-selling.

From an environmental standpoint, generating 5,110 kWh falls short of the 6500kWh target I have to cover all my electrical power requirement. I was hoping the figure would be more than I require to allow for the charging of an electric vehicle in the future. I could go for a larger wind turbine but the finances get rather out of hand. After all, on the returns being offered you would not cover repayments if you borrowed the money. Photovoltaics may be possible to make up the shortfall. The challenge to achieve sustainable living will have to continue.