Residential Wind Power 101
Residential Wind Turbines Generate Electricity from the Wind
Wind turbines convert wind into electricity. There are two basic designs used commercially: the vertical axis or “egg beater” type and the horizontal axis or “propeller” type. Regardless of the type, they generate electricity the same way. The blades of the wind turbine are attached to a rotor/shaft that generates electricity when it spins. For most wind turbines the process of generating energy is identical to the alternator in a car – electromagnetic induction.
Check out the quiet SkyStream residential wind turbine next to the Capitol Building (in the US Botanical Gardens).
Wind Turbines are a Proven and Reliable Technology
Electricity generating wind turbines have been around for nearly 100 years. The same basic technology that is used in the world’s largest wind farms generates electricity in small residential wind turbines. Most small turbines are robustly built and do not require regular maintenance. They operate automatically and are designed to work smoothly for over 20 years.
Wind Power Can Save You a Lot of Money
How much did you pay for electricity last month? As a rule of thumb, assume that a wind turbine will account for 70% of your electric usage. So if you spent $200 last month, you might save 70% or $140 each month. That’s a savings of $1,680 per year. Don’t forget that electricity costs have historically gone up 2-3% each year – that’s means you will saving about $2260 on your 2020 electric bill! Some wind turbines save more, some save less, but in the end they all reduce your electric bill from the day they are installed.
