Wind power, or wind energy systems, are alternative energy systems, which produce electricity. Wind power generators take advantage of winds to produce electricity, just like farmers use these winds to turn their mills or pump water.
The components of a wind energy system include:
· A 80 to 120 foot (10 to 15m) tower
· Rotors or blades
· Drive train
· Interconnection equipment
· Controls
The tower is made of tubular steel. A concrete pad to anchor the base must be installed.
Rotors or blades are made of fiberglass-reinforced polyester or wood epoxy. The arrangement is either horizontal axis with propeller type blades or vertical axis “egg beater†style. Blade diameters for propeller type turbines in residential applications are 8 to 24 feet (1 to 8 m).
The drive train is where it all happens. The rotation of the rotors drives the generator to produce electricity, very much like the diesel engine drives the generator in a diesel-powered generator.
The electricity produced in the wind power generator is then fed through the interconnection equipment into the main electric panel in your home. Any electricity produced by your wind energy generator is fed back into the utility grid. This means you are feeding renewable energy into the grid and your utility bills will be reduced.
Controls, specifically designed for wind power systems, ensure that the system is operating optimally. The blades on some systems are adjusted automatically in response to wind direction and wind force. Also, should the wind speeds exceed safe levels during a storm, the wind turbines will automatically be stopped.
Some concerns have been raised about the use of wind turbines, such as:
· Noise
· Space requirement
· Visual impact
· Danger to birds
Noise: Today’s models of residential wind energy generators are much more quiet than first generation models. A well designed and properly installed wind power system will not create more noise than a dishwasher or the TV.
Space requirements: Wind generators a re generally not suited for city dwellings. It is recommended to install these systems on properties of at least ¾ acres. Of course, if your ½ acre property abuts a farmer’s field, and the farmer has no objections, you might be able to install a wind power system for your home.
Visual impact: Some people object to the way a wind turbine looks. It is recommended to check with your local jurisdiction if your town has any zoning limitations or other requirements. Sometimes an open and frank conversation with neighbors can go a long way. Who knows, they might just install a wind power system as well, once you inform them of the advantages!
Danger to birds: Residential wind turbines are generally too small to pose a danger to birds. The large Megawatt wind power farms with hundreds of towers can indeed pose a danger to migrating birds.
Wind power generation is a very viable option as an alternative energy source for green homes.
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