It’s no secret that energy costs are skyrocketing – just ask any homeowner! But is this always a bad thing? Perhaps not, when you consider that not only are people taking steps toward energy conservation, but innovators are grappling with this problem in an effort to find new sources of energy.

Home wind power is not exactly a new invention, wind as a power source has been used around the world for centuries. Today, it’s refined for modern use, and windmill “farms” are popping up across the country as everyone pushes for new sources of “free” energy from the sun and wind.

Homeowners who are considering installing a wind power generator to save money are on the right track. The equipment is just the right size for home use, affordable, easy to install, and home wind power is eco-friendly. The wind blows day and night and in all seasons, so it may even be a bit friendlier for homeowners than solar projects. There are even portable mini windmills that are being widely used in Europe to power small devices. This technology is ready, willing and able to help with power shortages.

Things to remember about home wind power:

Wind can work in conjunction with solar energy systems to drive energy production.

Excess wind power can be sold back to local power companies, resulting in a net zero electricity bill.

Feeding wind power back to the power company causes the meter to work backwards!

Wind energy is clean energy, non-polluting, respectful of the environment.

No power outages and lower energy bills.

Cheaper than running on power lines to remote properties.

It should be combined with off-grid lighting and energy efficient appliances, make a hybrid system.

Larger systems need a backup power source, generators.

Need for energy storage in batteries and adequate structure for turbines.

$5000 to $50,000 to set up remote off-grid systems based on property size, buildings, and need. Less expensive to run wind than diesel generator.

Wind turbines do not interfere with electrical or transmission signals.

Windmills have been used for centuries to pump water and work well in low speed winds.

Some states (CA, IL, soon others) offer rebates to cover half of installation costs.

Small wind turbines deliver 100 to 1,400 kWh per month and generate 48, 110, and 240 VDC.

There are many ways to use wind power to generate power at home and save money. The best advantage, of course, is that wind, like sunlight, is free. A windmill will produce power when the blades turn, and that power is then stored in a battery, reversed from DC to AC for home use. Small wind turbines are sold worldwide in more than 100 countries. It’s the right time!