Home wind power
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I spent a lot of time surfing the net looking for good, free information on home wind power. A lot of the stuff was way too technical for the average Joe. Some of the plans would require a degree in engineering to carry out.
I checked the local bookstores and still could not find the information I needed – I wanted to power my cabin that sits next to a lake miles away from the nearest power lines. I wanted a power source that was affordable and easy to use. (I tried a generator but it's portability made it a target for thieves and it was noisy.) After much searching I finally found a few books which were perfect to help me understand the basics of home wind power.
Lots of people see the positives of wind power but think it's too hard to set up - it doesn't have to be that way and the rewards are huge. Knowing you are self-sufficient is one of the best feelings there is.
When planning to set up home wind power, there are some things you should keep in mind, first make sure you are zoned to allow wind turbines. Second, although large systems can be expensive you can start small and upgrade your equipment later.
Wha tis the ballpark cost of home wind power?
It's like buying a car - the size of your needs (Hummer vs compact car) determines the cost. You should reduce your energy needs first to reduce costs.
Find a good site
Small home wind power turbines should be set up far from dwellings and clear of any obstructions.
Consider those around you
Make sure you talk to your neighbours about setting up a wind turbine. Some people are not familiar or comfortable with home wind power turbines near their property. Talking to them before you start building can help you avoid opposition.
Wind Power Plans
These guides on home wind power (click the blue link) can save you time and trouble of trying to find information on the internet.
wind power
WIND POWER IN THE NEWS
Power Blowing In The Wind
For advocates of environmentally friendly energy, it seems like it has taken forever for ordinary consumers to buy into the idea of renewable power sources. As a society, many people believe we're basically giving the planet a black lung. But it seems that while we know what to do to fix it, we don't. Why?
Environmental activists have brought the issue to Capitol Hill. Politicians have brought it to Hollywood. Hollywood has helped bring it into our homes. We're constantly reminded of the urgency to exercise clean and green alternatives.
Why use wind power?
Wind power converts kinetic energy from wind into other forms like electricity. Unlike carbon based energy sources wind energy does not pollute or create greenhouse gasses and is sustainable forever.
Wind power has been used for thousands of years. Early civilizations used wind power to pump water and grind grain in windmills. Wind power allowed man to cross oceans and explore the world in wind-driven ships. In the early part of the 20th century wind power was used to pump water and provide electricity to farms all across North America.
The potential for wind energy to provide a clean alternative to carbon-based energy sources has caused a renewed interest in wind technology. The long-term energy needs of the world require us to explore alternatives that will meet our needs while preserving the planet.
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Comments
I enjoyed reading this. I am also searching for a way to power my home with a renewable energy source, but have been thinking solar. Maybe wind is the way to go. I would love to hear how the power supply at your cabin is working out. Maybe you could write another hub on that?
Very nice hub! I like to think about a combination of both: solar and wind at the same time, if circumstances allows that, of course.



Marye Audet says:
11 months ago
have you seen the company that does what they call the plug and play wind turbine? It is only 30 ft tall and user friendly. :) Great Hub