Supplying as much as 20 percent of electricity in many areas around the globe, wind energy is one of the fastest growing renewable power sources. Beginning centuries ago as a means of travel by boats, wind energy has come a long way since making water travel viable — it has put the wind in the sails of our everyday energy needs in the modern age. And all while being a renewable energy source with minimal negative impact on the environment.
However, as you seek to make your home an eco-friendly beacon in the land of fossil fuels — and of course save money on your power bill — you might be wondering if wind energy is the way to go. There are a few things to consider:
Do you have enough wind in your area? An average of 12 mph annual wind speed is necessary for adequate power production. The U.S. Department of Energy’s chart will give you a general idea of wind levels in your area, but wind speed is greatly affected by geography and surrounding structures. So a further professional assessment of your wind speed and best turbine location is advised.
Will a wind turbine create a disruptive level of noise? Although some do complain about the noise, a wind turbine at the appropriate 300 meters away from homes is 43 decibels. When compared with the 50 decibels of the average air conditioner, it’s not hugely significant. That being said, make sure that you have a few spare acres of land to place the turbine far enough away from buildings and power lines.
Will a short tower turbine be sufficient? It depends. While taller towers are more effective at capturing wind as it passes over trees and homes, cities often restrict their use in residential areas. A shorter 35-foot turbine is an alternative–but with a potentially lower power output due to the lack of height, it may not prove to be a worthwhile investment.
If you determine that wind energy just isn’t for you but you still would like a renewable power source for your home, consider installing a rooftop, solar panel array instead. It is a quiet, clean and affordable option for residential green energy.