|
If you're looking just to save money, it's not going to happen. If you want some security or independence, or live in an off-grid area - that's a differenet story. I have two 1000 watt wind-turbines along with a 5400 watt solar-electric system. Average annual wind here is listed at 7 MPH. The reality is - we get a lot of 20 - 60 MPH winds here in the winter, and almost nothing in the summer. Some of the best wind generators need 7 MPH to make any power. And, many don't work well with grid-tie which is probably what you really need. Keep in mind that most wind generators spend a lot of time making nothing, and at other times make a lot more power than you can use. So, you MUST have a way to capture the excess - or you just lose it. If grid-tie is allowed where you live, it can be the best option. This way, the power company is forced to save your excess power for you, and let you have it back when you can use it - with no line charges. There's a lot more to it all - and this is not the place to be writing essays on it. For the most part, it's not cost-effective unless your state gives you cash incentives that you've already paid for anyway (taxes and power bill). In my case, New York paid half the cost - otherwise I'd never done it. Nice thing is - when the sun seems to be the worst and my solar-electric is not doing anything - the wind is often at its best.
|