What? Small wind systems are defined as systems with a capacity less than 100 kilowatts. For inland New England locations, an effective wind turbine typically needs to be mounted on a tower 100–150 feet tall.
How does it work? Wind turbines convert wind energy into usable electricity. The blades of a wind turbine catch the wind and spin a generator that produces electricity. Small wind turbines can utilize a battery bank for “off-grid” applications or to provide back-up power. Most frequently a small wind turbine will connect to the electric grid through ‘net metering.’ Net metering uses the utility grid to sell power back to your electric company. This eliminates the need for battery storage.
Who? Wind installations are site specific; they become a viable option when average sustained site wind speeds are 12 miles per hour and higher. Effective wind tower locations require broad exposure to the prevailing wind direction. As average wind speeds increase, the energy generated from a wind turbine increases dramatically (e.g. wind power increases by a factor of three as speed increases), making it the preferred renewable energy choice for those locations. Other site considerations include the land area and what, if any, physical wind barriers exist such as trees, buildings or bluffs. Small wind installations are more costly than other technologies. Given the cost, maintenance requirements and liability of infrastructure, small wind is the logical choice only when the site is ideal. Using wind mapping software and on-site analysis, Integrated Solar can determine the feasibility of a wind installation on your site.
Why? Wind energy generation produces no pollution and no harmful greenhouse gases. When a suitable wind site is available a wind turbine can produce considerably more power for the same investment level when compared to photovoltaic systems.
