Introduction
The world is facing an energy crisis. Fossil fuels are finite resources that are rapidly being depleted. They also contribute to climate change through greenhouse gas emissions. Renewable energy sources like wind, solar, hydroelectric, geothermal and biomass can provide clean and sustainable energy alternatives. Of these, wind energy stands out as one of the most promising options. Small-scale wind turbines installed in backyards and on rooftops have the potential to generate significant amounts of electricity while empowering homeowners and communities. This article explores how backyard windmills can help solve the world's energy problems.
The Benefits of Backyard Wind Turbines
Backyard wind turbines, also known as small wind energy systems, offer several advantages:
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Clean energy: Wind turbines don't emit greenhouse gases or other pollutants. They provide 100% clean, renewable electricity.
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Energy independence: Wind turbines allow homeowners to generate their own electricity, reducing reliance on the grid. This provides energy security and insulation from utility rate hikes.
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Cost savings: The electricity generated can offset purchases from the utility company, lowering energy bills. Many homeowners see a return on investment in less than 10 years.
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Grid support: Backyard wind can feed excess electricity back into the grid. This helps utilities meet renewable energy goals and demand during peak times.
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Scalability: Wind turbines can range in size from a few hundred watts to tens of kilowatts. Systems can be scaled to match the needs of urban, suburban or rural sites.
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Abundant resource: Wind is free and virtually limitless. The sun's uneven heating of the atmosphere creates consistent wind patterns. Clever turbine design allows homeowners to harvest it.
Challenges and Solutions
Backyard wind energy faces some challenges. However, there are solutions to make the technology more viable:
Intermittent Generation
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Wind speeds vary, causing turbine output to fluctuate. This intermittency can be mitigated by:
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Pairing wind with solar PV systems to balance generation
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Using forecasting tools to predict wind availability
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Incorporating energy storage like batteries to stockpile excess electricity
High Upfront Cost
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The initial cost of small wind turbines can be $10,000 or more. The options to address this include:
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Taking advantage of tax credits and incentive programs to reduce net cost
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Leveraging innovative financing options like solar leases and PPAs
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Opting for cheaper DIY turbine kits you can install yourself
Low Wind Speed Sites
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Turbines need average annual wind speeds of at least 10 mph to be effective. Solutions include:
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Choosing models optimized for low wind sites
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Using taller towers to access faster wind at higher elevations
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Finding small wind hot spots around buildings and terrain
Zoning & Permits
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Local zoning laws and permit requirements can impede wind projects. Strategies like these can help:
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Petitioning for revised codes to accommodate wind energy
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Seeking permits early and ensuring compliance
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Collaborating with local leaders and utilities to promote wind
Aesthetics & Noise
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Some homeowners associations and neighbors object to how turbines look and the potential noise. Ways to mitigate this include:
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Using quieter direct drive generators rather than noisy gearboxes
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Installing smaller turbines with compact profiles
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Situating turbines away from roads and neighboring homes
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Screening turbines with fences, trees or shrubs to soften visual impact
Sizing and Siting Backyard Turbines
Properly sizing and siting wind turbines is critical for maximizing performance. Consider these factors:
Average Wind Speed
- Annual average wind speeds should be at least 10 mph at hub height. The higher the wind speeds, the more power generated.
Tower Height
- Taller towers allow turbines to access faster, less turbulent wind above the surface. Ideal tower height is 80-120 ft.
Positioning
- Point turbine into the prevailing wind direction to maximize exposure. Avoid turbulent wakes from buildings and trees.
Site Layout
- Plan for safe clearances from buildings, power lines and property lines. Minimize shadowing from structures and terrain.
Energy Needs
- Size the turbine and blades to produce enough power for current and future energy needs. Factor in projected electricity consumption.
Zoning Rules
- Adhere to any zoning rules limiting turbine and tower size, height, placement, noise and appearance.
Top Backyard Wind Turbines
There are many good backyard wind turbine options on the market today. Here are three top picks:
Bergey Excel 10
- Rated Power: 10 kW
- Tower Height: 80-120 ft
- Blade Diameter: 23 ft
- Low noise 3-blade horizontal axis turbine designed for residential use
Southwest Windpower Skystream 3.7
- Rated Power: 2.4 kW
- Tower Height: 80-140 ft
- Blade Diameter: 12 ft
- Compact, low maintenance turbine at a great value
Urban Green Energy Eddy
- Rated Power: 1-10 kW
- Tower Height: 32-164 ft
- Blade Diameter: 7.5-11 ft
- Sleek vertical axis turbine effective even in turbulent, low wind
Financial Incentives
Installing a wind turbine carries a significant upfront investment. However, state, federal and utility incentives can help defray the cost:
- Federal Investment Tax Credit - Get 26% of system cost back
- State/local sales tax exemptions - Avoid sales tax on turbine
- State/utility rebates - Receive $1,000-$5,000 rebate
- Net metering - Get bill credit for excess power generated
- Performance payments - Earn money for kWh generated
- Accelerated depreciation - Recover investment faster
Conclusion
Backyard wind turbines allow homeowners to harness the wind, generate their own power and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. While there are challenges, careful planning and design can create successful and cost-effective renewable energy systems. Supportive policies and incentives also improve the economics. As wind turbine technology advances, small wind can play an expanding role in powering homes and communities while combating climate change.