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Wind power is technology that is rapidly becoming a major source of
electricity around the world. Wind power generators
works on the conversion of mechanical energy into electricity.
Wind power has been utilized since early days of sailing. Used for moving ships, pumping water through windmills and more
recently to make electricity, wind power is an abundant alternative energy
source.
Beginning in the 19th century the first wind power generators were
used to drive DC motors. Today wind power generators
provide small scale electrical outputs for residential use or large scale outputs used for complete
power grids.
Developments in wind power generators have allowed residential users to
create systems that are considered “off the grid”.
Primarily in rural and suburban areas more people are turning to wind power generators to provide
inexpensive and cleaner alternative energy sources.
When considering wind power generators for residential or business use,
several considerations should be taken into account:
- Does your location have adequate wind power to
meet your overall consumption? To assist in determining available resources, the US
Department of Energy’s Energy Information Administration provides free Renewable
Potential Maps of available alternative energy sources (http://www.eia.doe.gov/emeu/reps/rpmap/rp_contents.html).
- Is there an available grid connection in your area that is convenient
and inexpensive? In many metropolitan
and suburban areas grid connections are both convenient and inexpensive when
comparing the cost of power sources.
- Does your location have adequate room to operate a wind power
generator? Wind power generators require
enough space to safely operate the blade mechanisms in a 360 degree area. Appropriate height and circular distance for safe
operation must be considered. Most urban
and city areas do not provide the space requirements and careful consideration must
be made before constructing any systems.
- Are you looking for energy
independence? Wind power generators are
but one readily available alternative energy source that can help establish energy
independence.
- Are you willing to pay the upfront cost in an effort to reduce the
environmental impact of your electricity use? Wind power generators not only require initial
equipment costs but also cost associated with zoning, permits, and constructing base
platforms and adequate tower structures.
For residential use these costs are not significantly high compared to the long term
benefits.
- Will your utility company connect your system to their electricity
grid with the intention of buying any excess electricity you produce? Buyback incentive programs exist in some
areas. Be sure to check with your local
utility company if any programs are offered.
- Does your state, city, or utility company offer
rebates, tax credits or other incentives for alternative energy use?
Visit http://www.dsireusa.org/ to find out about financial incentives in your
area.
Unfortunately, some restrictions upon the location of wind power generators
do not always allow for their use. It is important to
verify zoning and construction regulations when considering any alternative energy source for
residential use. In some cases make it the most cost
effective source of energy when a standard grid is available. As technology develops and usage increases, cost and limitations
for wind power will decrease.
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