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Directory:Alternate Energy Resources/Wind Energy (view source)
Revision as of 16:53, 10 February 2008
, 16:53, 10 February 2008→Installing and Maintaining a Small Electric Wind System
=== Evaluating a Potential Small Wind Turbine Site ===
=== Evaluating a Potential Small Wind Turbine Site ===
A small wind energy system can provide a practical and economical source of electricity if the following apply to you:
* Your property has a good wind resource
* Your home or business is located on at least one acre of land in a rural area
* Your local zoning codes or covenants allow wind turbines
* You can determine how much electricity you need or want to produce
* It works for you economically, and you're comfortable with long-term investments
* Your average electricity bills are $150 per month or more
* Your property is in a remote location that does not have easy access to utility lines.
=== Small Wind Electric System Components ===
=== Small Wind Electric System Components ===
To capture and convert the wind's kinetic energy into electricity, a home wind energy system generally comprises the following:
* A wind turbine (blades) attached to a rotor, generator/alternator mounted on a frame, and usually a tail
* A tower
* Balance-of-system components, such as controllers, inverters, and/or batteries.
=== Installing and Maintaining a Small Electric Wind System ===
=== Installing and Maintaining a Small Electric Wind System ===
With proper installation and maintenance, a small wind electric system should last up to 20 years or longer.
'''Installation'''
Before installing your system, you first need to do the following:
* Find the best site
* Size your wind turbine
* Decide whether you'll have a grid-connected or stand-alone system
* Understand your local zoning, permitting, and neighborhood covenant requirements.
The manufacturer/dealer should be able to help you install your small wind electric system. Many people elect to install the systems themselves. Before attempting to install your wind turbine, ask yourself the following questions:
* Can I pour a proper cement foundation?
* Do I have access to a lift or a way of erecting the tower safely?
* Do I know the difference between alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) wiring?
* Do I know enough about electricity to safely wire my turbine?
* Do I know how to safely handle and install batteries?
If you answered no to any of the above questions, you should probably choose to have your system installed by a system integrator or installer.
Contact the manufacturer for help, or contact your state energy office and local utility for a list of local system installers. You can also check the yellow pages for wind energy system service providers.
A credible installer may provide additional services such as permitting. Find out if the installer is a licensed electrician, and ask for references and check them. You may also want to check with the Better Business Bureau.
'''Maintenance'''
Although small wind turbines typically are sturdy and reliable machines, they do require some annual maintenance.
* Check and tighten bolts and electrical connections as necessary.
* Check machines for corrosion and the guy wires for proper tension.
* Check for and replace any worn leading edge tape on the turbine blades, if appropriate.
* Replace the turbine blades and/or bearings after 10 years if needed.
If you do not have the expertise to maintain the system, your installer may provide a service and maintenance program.
== Wind Power ==
== Wind Power ==