Residential
wind generator are
becoming more accessible to a greater number of people than ever before. More
people want to know, are they right for me?
There
are many things to take into consideration when reviewing wind power, the first
being the availability of wind in your area.Once you know if your average wind
speed is favorable, the next step is to see if wind power generators are
allowed under your zoning. You may need a building permit.
If
you have neighbors close by you may want to talk to them about the aspect of a
home wind power generator in the neighborhood. Some may be thrilled to see a
proactive approach to green power. Others may have concerns about residential
wind generators that need to be addressed.
The
average wind speed in your area is a good starting point but there are many
other variables that will affect the performance of a home wind power
generator.The topography of your location greatly affects your wind
availability. Even in a high average wind speed area, if you live in a valley
or on the lee ward side of a bluff your wind power generators performance will
be disappointing.
On
the other hand someone in an area of low average wind speed could do quite well
with residential wind generators if they are on a hilltop or the windblown side
of a bluff or ridge. Some wind powered street
lights claim startup speeds as low as four MPH.
The
average wind speed in an area can vary greatly through the seasons. At our
location in northwestern Illinois, our average wind speed in summer is class 2.
In winter when all the crops are harvested and the leaves are off the trees we
often reach class 4. Light wind residential wind generators should do quite
well in our area.
Because
of all the variables involved, and the expense of the installation, site
surveys are required to more accurately assess the capabilities for residential
wind generators at a given site. This is the only way to accurately gauge the
size of wind power generators needed.
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