First
Can I install a wind turbine at my house? On my farm?
When we refer to small wind, we are really looking at system sizes anywhere from 1 kW to 100 kW. Roughly speaking, a 1 kW (kilowatt = 1000 watts, a measure of energy delivered over time) wind turbine would provide 2200 kWh (kilowatt-hours). As a reference, they average family of four uses 10,000 kWh each year in their home. Therefore, systems can be sized to help offset energy needs, or to even live “off the grid,” which is to say, not connected to the utility companies and therefore providing 100% of your own power. Larger systems can substantially reduce what you pay for energy annually, and often the savings pay for the system relatively quickly.
Second
What factors do I need to think about when considering wind power?
There are a number of aspects that need careful planning and study prior to any wind installation. Very generally, the power one can harness from the wind is a function of the swept area of the blades (the circular diameter as the blades spin around), and the velocity of the wind. Typically, this requires long blades and a turbine placed high enough to capture unobstructed wind. So space is certainly necessary for a tower and foundation (and sometimes guyed wires), and the ability to build high enough without running into local permitting/zoning restrictions or FAA restrictions. More importantly, however, is the wind. Not every area has steady enough winds to consistently turn the blades and create energy. We can help you determine if your area is a proper site for harnessing wind energy.
Third
What do I want to accomplish?
Are you a farm with a large monthly energy bill? Or a family that wants to reduce your carbon footprint? Matching the size of the turbine to the electrical load (how much energy you use) and to your budget is what we do. We can help you decide what makes the most financial sense, and most environmental sense for your family or your small business.
Fourth
How do I learn what I don’t know?
The truth is, there are a lot of aspects to installing a wind turbine. Not because of the turbine technology—which is proven and works—but as a result of the necessary studies beforehand: the permitting process, utility tie in, and applying for grants/rebates. Waterline has the professionals who have worked through the process to successful completion. On time. On budget. If you need a partner in this, we’d like to help.