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A wind power home generator uses a wind turbine to collect kinetic energy. The wind power generator then converts the kinetic energy into electricity that can be used in the home. Installing a wind power system is good for the environment since wind power is pollution free. According to the American Wind Energy Association, even a small wind power home generator can significantly reduce the amount of air pollutants, carbon dioxide and other green house gases that are released into the environment by conventional power sources. How a Wind Power Home Generator Works Most homes with a wind power home generator use power from the wind turbine at the same time as power from their local utility. A wind power home generator has no batteries to provide power when wind is not present. Instead, when wind speeds dip below 7 to 10 mph and output from the wind generator drops, power from the utility company is used. When wind speeds increase, the generator’s power output increases and less power from the utility company is needed. When a wind power system produces more energy than the home needs, the excess electricity can be sold back to the power company. This transaction takes place automatically through the home’s power meter. Federal regulations require utility companies to connect with home wind power systems and to purchase excess energy from them. A homeowner can expect to get help from the wind power manufacturer when it comes to connecting to the local power utility company. Savings with a Wind Power Home Generator A homeowner who installs a wind power home generator can expect utility bill savings of 50 to 90 percent. The amount of money saved is determined by the home’s power usage, average wind speed in a home’s location and the installation cost of the wind power system. New U.S. subsidy programs for homeowners who install wind power systems can help offset the initial cost of a wind power home generator. Some states, such as Illinois and California, offer grants and rebates on home wind power systems. Other states will soon be following the example of these two states. Who should consider a Wind Power Home Generator The wind turbine that is used to collect kinetic energy is usually installed on top of an 80 to 120 foot tower. Due to the size of the tower and turbine blades, a wind power system is not suitable for homes with small lots or close neighbors. Generally, wind power systems are recommended for homes with at least an acre of property. The average wind speed in a home’s location must be sufficient to support a wind power home generator. The general recommendation is that the wind speed average at least 10 mph. For some homeowners, the financial return on a wind power system may be a bigger incentive than saving the environment. In this case, unless the homeowner is paying at least 10 cents per kilowatt hour for power, the return on investment for the wind power system may not make the cost of installation worthwhile. Sam Jones the author of this article has just bought some home solar panels, in the hope of greatly reducing his electricity bill.
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wind power, energy saving, conserving energy, renewable energy,
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