How do I Find & Buy Wind Turbines & Land?

Wind turbines can be an excellent additional source of energy, but you may need to follow city and state guidelines on their installation and usage.

Wind turbines can be an excellent source of power to a home or business by converting natural wind into an energy source. Wind turbines are readily available from a variety of alternative energy supply stores. In addition, if you have a do-it-yourself disposition, you may be able to build your own wind turbine or purchase a used one. However, finding land to set up the wind turbines on can be tricky. Depending on the town or city you live in, you may have to abide by certain zoning and building restrictions. In addition, you may need to file for certain permits.

Things You'll Need

• Wind turbine permit (for construction and operation)

Instructions

1. Determine how large a wind turbine you want to install. The larger the wind turbine, the more energy it will produce. Keep in mind that a wind turbine should not be used as your only source of energy. An 8-11 foot diameter wind turbine can produce between 800-1000 watts, while the larger, commercial ones often produce more than 250 kilowatts. On an average, wind speeds are between 5-15 mph on a given day. The more wind you have, the more energy you will produce.

   Consult your energy bill to determine your average watt usage to determine how much a wind turbine could help your energy costs.

2. Consult with your energy company about installing a wind turbine on your land -- whether it is your own personal land, land you are leasing or land that you plan on purchasing. The energy company will be able to assist you with energy rebates they may offer to you for "going green," and possibly help you with any permits needed to install the turbines. They may also be able to provide you a contact person or company for purchasing wind turbines.

3. Contact a wind turbine manufacturer and/or installer. Let them know which type of wind turbine you would like, for example how many watts you are looking to produce and how large the turbine can be due to any city/town restrictions.

4. Contact your local town/city administrator or supervisor regarding land usage and wind turbines. If you plan on installing this in a residential area for personal use, you may have certain restrictions. However, if you purchase land strictly for the use of wind turbines (often called a "wind farm"), you may need to file additional permits for each of the wind turbines you install and gain permission from the town/city where the land is located.

5. Determine placement of your wind turbine on your land. Typically, you will want to place it at the highest point of your land so that it gives you optimal performance. Then, have all of the components installed to have the energy delivered directly to your home, or to a conversion box for the power company so they can receive the power directly. If the power company receives the wattage directly from you, you should be entitled to tax incentives and payment from the electric company for providing the power.

References

• Other Power

Resources

• My Wind Power System