Wind Power
Wind energy technology has improved over the past twenty years. Wind turbines built during the early 70's, were not as efficient and reliable as today's. If you haven't looked into wind technology in a while or never have, you might want to think about using a wind turbine as a renewable energy source. Especially for those of us who don't see much of the sun. Here are some things to consider for those who are thinking of investing in wind energy.
Is
there enough wind at your site?
For most turbines, an average wind of 7 to 10 mph is required (cut-in speed)
before a wind turbine will begin generating electricity and an average speed
of 10 mph is required before they become economical. (This figure may vary
depending upon local energy providers.)
The Renewable Resource Data Center (RReDC) has produced a Wind
Energy Resource Map of the United States that provides a detailed map
of average wind speeds. Although the map is a useful guide, it does not have
enough detail to determine if your site is acceptable or not. Differences
in terrain, obstructions and seasonal variations all play a role in determining
if you have a viable site. It is best that you consult with a local wind turbine
dealer who can provide a site survey before making any major investments in
wind power. Even if you think your site is windy, you must remember that the
average wind speed is critical.
Is
it economical?
As an average rule of thumb, the average wind speed should be no less than
10 mph and the electric utility rate should be at least .10/kWh. With that
said, you also need to take into consideration your up front cost for the
wind turbine, tower and wiring. A 3,000 watt system including the turbine
and inverter runs about $10,000. The system that I found priced at $10,000
stated that it produces 3,000 watts with a 25 mph wind. You could probably
expect 1,000 watts at about 16 mph. As you can see, it's quite a sizable investment
and the time before recouping your investment could be at least 6 to 15 years.
As stated above, it is best that you contact a local wind turbine dealer for
a site evaluation.
What
about surplus electricity? Does the electric company have to buy it back?
On those windy days, more than likely you will have a surplus of electricity
and by law your local electric company has to buy the electricity back from
you. But, depending upon what state you live in, the electric company may
buy the power back at a wholesale rate, or if you're lucky, they may buy it
back at the same rate they charge you. Be aware, that the electric company
may also charge you for the cost of installing another power meter that runs
backwards.
What
about maintenance?
One thing is for certain, anything with moving parts will eventually wear
out. That's not to say that today's wind turbines are not reliable - they
are for the most part. But do be aware that sooner or later, you will have
to do maintenance or have someone do maintenance on a wind turbine. Most wind
turbines on the market today have a 2 to 3 year warranty and are designed
for up to 20 years of life.
What
other kinds of wind power are there?
Besides electricity, wind can be used to pump water. Since the days of
the Dutch windmill, man has been using windmills to pump water and grind flour.
Most windmills went the way of the dinosaur once electricity was brought to
rural communities, but you can still buy new or used windmills today. Windmills
can pump water hundreds of feet deep depending upon the size of the windmill
and the diameter of the well hole. If you are mechanically inclined, you may
want to ask a local farmer about buying his old, broken down windmill.
Why
do people invest in wind energy?
There are a number of reasons why people invest in wind energy. For those
who do not live on the grid and live in a not too sunny environment, it may
be there only choice besides using a noisy, pollution spewing generator. For
others, it may be that they want to live self sufficiently or to help the
environment. Some are looking for vindication against their local utility
companies. Whatever the reasons, wind energy is a renewable energy source
that doesn't pollute our environment and is a viable source of energy.