In many areas, small wind turbines, mounted on towers between 80 and 120 feet tall, can generate enough electricity from the wind to power your home. Excess electricity can even be sold to your local utility company for a profit.
Types of Wind Turbines
Wind turbines can be separated into two types based by the axis in which the turbine rotates. Turbines that rotate around a horizontal axis are most common by far.
How They Work
Turbines used for production of electric power are usually three-bladed and must pointed into the wind. Small turbines are pointed by a simple wind vane. Larger ones use computer-controlled motors. Towers typically range from 80 to 300 feet in height. The blade shaft can be connected directly to an electrical generator or may go through a gear box to step up the speed of the generator. All turbines should equipped with a shut-down feature to avoid damage at high wind speeds.
In considering a wind generator, there are many issues to consider and many options to verify in order for effective use. One of the first considerations is to determine the amount of energy you will need.
Small Installations
For small power needs like battery charging, there are portable wind generators that will work in most areas like construction, camping, and other areas in need of minimal amounts of energy.
Large Installations
For more energy needs, larger wind turbines are needed and the location becomes vital. To check the average wind speed in your area, check the US Department of Energy's Wind Map. Once you have confirmed that a windmill will work in your area, the next step is to determine if windmills are allowed in your area. Zoning laws may prohibit their use. The local utility company should be contacted to determine rules regarding the use of wind-powered generators.
Construction
You have a number of options when it comes to the actual construction of your wind-powered generator. You can contract the entire job out or you might consider the purchase of a kit that you can assemble yourself. There are also plans availble that will guide you in determining the size required to satisfy your energy needs, and help in selecting and assembling parts.
Click here for plans on how to build a wind-powered generator.
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About the Author
John Horning specializes in reporting on do-it-yourself solar power projects and related topics. Visit his website at DIY-Solar-Power.net.
