Renewable Energy Development For Homes
The wind power industry has been transformed in the 1990s by dramatic breakthroughs in efficiency, economy, and adaptability. One of the most exciting developments in the production of renewable energy at home is the use of micro-turbines.
Micro-Turbines For Homes
Micro-turbines have been around for decades for use on sailboats. They have gained increasing prominence in 1990s as their broader potential on land has become more widely known. A 300-watt micro-turbine was launched in 1995 by Southwest Windpower for home use. The debut of micro wind turbines brings the technology within reach of almost everyone. Since then the use of wind power is exploding, with growth rate of over 60% per year. Consumers all over the world are making their switch when they realized wind power is an excellent and cost-effective alternative.
Micro-Turbines As Supplementry Renewable Energy
Micro-turbines are so small that they can be purchased for less than $1000 and carried hands. They are quiet, efficient and reliable. An array of micro turbines can generate plenty of power for home use. Micro-turbines can be unobtrusively mounted in arrays that can supply a surprising amount of power. They also have the advantage of continuing to work in very light wind situations.
The increasing popularity of micro wind turbines has opened up new applications previously considered off-limits to wind energy, such as charging electric fences and powering remote telephone call boxes, once the sole domain of solar cells.
Integrating Wind And Solar Energy
With careful planning and site preparation, many home owners are able to install integrated solar and wind system. Micro-turbines, when coupled with readily available photovoltaic panels (solar cells), have revolutionized living in remote homes off-the-utility grid. By complimenting solar power with wind power, it is possible to produce cost-effective and reliable energy for home use. In many cases, there is even excess energy available for sales to the utility company.
