The signs have been there for decades, but only recently has mankind recognized its fatal dependency on fossil fuels is coming to a head. Point blank, they are just too hazardous to the environment and far too expensive. For this reason research into alternative energy is breaking ground every day promising to become our primary energy source in the not so distant future. Wind is the perfect example of a sustainable energy source, dare I say a sustainable superstar. It’s freely available, constantly blowing, and we have been harnessing its power (electrically or otherwise) for centuries. Though its not clear yet as to how vital wind power will be, it is definitely one of the major players in renewable energy game.

Currently the US Department of Energy is conducting studies attempting to evaluate the entire situation. So far their reports indicate that within twenty years up to twenty percent of our electrical energy needs may be supplied by wind power. That will be a fifth of our electrical power needs derived from sustainable wind sources as early as the year 2030. In order for us to reach this benchmark by the year 2030 though, the Department of Energy must make a sound resolve to commit the appropriate investment into this technology.

We generate electrical energy from wind using a network of wind turbines. These turbines convert the constant blowing of wind into electrical energy by harnessing the natural force via a propeller style rotor or in some cases a slotted vertical cylinder. A generator creates electrical power by converting the motion of the wind moving the propeller or cylinder into electricity.

Residential installation of wind turbine systems is in place in 47 of America’s 50 states, the majority of them in the Northeast and Midwest regions. If you are a resident of Wisconsin you have a unique advantage, most of that state has consistent wind velocities ranging from 8 – 50 miles per our which is optimal for the generation of electricity.

These residential turbines are intended to work hand and hand with the local utility company. If the electricity generated by the turbine system is not sufficient at the moment the back up system supplied by the utility company will kick in to ensure you are never without power. In addition you can also profit from your personal wind turbine if you are producing excess energy by selling your extra electricity back to the utility company. How cool is that!

On the down side some people complain that the noise produced by wind turbines is a bit obtrusive and takes away from ones quality of life. I disagree and believe with the right turbine network design and location these systems are not a bother at all (think small turbines as far away as possible).

Its fairly easy to determine if your real estate is suited for wind based power. The typical full service installer will asses the landscape, due personal feasibility studies, help you apply for grants, apply for zoning, install the system, and provide maintenance. A list of recommended installers is available on our resources page.