For thousands of years, humans have attempted to harness the energy of the wind, and recently it has become a viable alternative to conventional forms of energy production.
Recent Advances Make Wind a Viable Alternative
People have been sailing with wind power for centuries, and windmills have been used for generations as a source of mechanical power – but with the invention of the turbine, advances in electricity storage and transport, and large incentives and subsidies by governments all over the world, the wind has opened up an entirely new source of domestic energy production.
World’s Wind Energy Doubled
The amount of wind-produced electricity has doubled in the last three years and now creates approximately 1.5% of the world’s electricity.
Most of this wind energy is produced by large “wind farms” – large expanses of wind turbines that together produce large quantities of wind-produced energy – but as the demand for sustainable energy increases, more and more resources are being dedicated to small-scale wind power technology.
Produce Your Own Wind Energy
Residential wind turbines can cost from $6,000 to $22,000, depending on their size, but can reduce a monthly electric bill by up to 90% for most of the year. Federal tax benefits and subsidies, as well as local and state incentives for installing and using alternative power sources will help to defray the cost.
Less Than 1 Cent per kW-h
Although start-up costs of wind energy can be significant, the cost of energy production for a wind turbine is usually less than 1 cent per kW-h.
Need Professional Consultation and Wind Testing
When determining whether wind power is suitable for your home, it is essential to receive proper consultation and wind testing to determine if your region produces enough wind to make a wind turbine a viable option. You will need reports on the annual wind speed in your area, as well as local regulations for erecting a tower.
RESNET Qualified ENERGYSMART Wind Energy Contractors have the necessary experience and special training in energy efficiency. Find a RESNET Qualified Wind Energy Contractor