Wind Energy
With new incentives and improvements in turbine technology, wind energy can be a cost-effective source of electricity in certain areas. Please note, however, that wind power is generally less cost-effective than solar thermal and may require a longer time to see a return on your investment.
How does the wind produce energy?
Just like windmills that have been used for centuries, the blades of a wind turbine are designed to turn whenever wind blows at a minimum speed. The turbine uses this motion to generate electricity, which is delivered to the regular electric system of the home or business.
Is wind energy suited to my home or business site?
Because wind turbines must be in a good airstream (generally at least 60 feet from the ground) to be effective, they may not be suitable for urban or small-lot suburban homes. A property of at least one acre is ideal. To be cost-effective, a turbine location should have an average wind speed of at least 9.8 mph (4.4 meters per second)...and reach up to catch the wind!
- For wind energy, check the wind speed where you live, available free at http://Navigator.AWSTrueWind.com or http://www.3Tier.com/Firstlook. (Click on "Please login to display free wind speed data").
To find an appropriate vendor try searching the Internet for wind turbines by name then look for the factory dealers.
Wind Energy Incentives
The Residential Wind Energy incentive is $1 per watt of capacity up to a maximum of $2,000.
The Commercial Wind Energy incentive is $1 per watt of capacity up to a maximum of $4,000.
Minimum Requirements Are:
- Minimum Available Wind Speed: Class II (4.4 meters per second, or 9.8 miles per hour). Class III wind speed (5.1 meters per second, or 11.5 miles per hour) is even better.
- Minimum Tower Height at Turbine Hub: 66 feet for Class II wind; 50 feet for Class III wind.
- Tip of blade must be 30’ above any structure or tree within 250’ radius of tower.
Before you start your wind project, you’ll need to determine if program funds are available by mailing in an application and receiving a confirmation number. For an incentive application click here. 
