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Wind Power
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If you're investigating renewable energy, you've probably wondered about wind power for your home. Let's do a brief overview of the advantages and disadvantages of wind power.
Advantages of Wind Power
Affordability Factor
Let's face it. Most people nowadays don't get alternative energy just because they love the environment. They seek alternative energy because it’s practical and cheaper in the long run. Who doesn't want to save cash? As it turns out, wind generators are relatively affordable and allow you to save on your energy bill. Systems generally start at around $400.
Low Maintenance
No one wants extra work. Our days are long and hard enough as it is. Wind generators are generally low maintenance and are easy for most people to handle.
Round-the-Clock Generation
Unlike solar power, wind power is generated night and day. That means that even if you aren't using power, you're can still be generating it. Plus, some utility companies will let you sell back your extra energy.
Incentives and Rebates
Depending upon where you live, the government will provide you with tax credits or money in order to buy back any extra energy you've produced. The federal 30% tax credit is valid for wind and there are many others on local and state levels. Refer to DSIRE.org for more information.Great Solar Alternative
Unfortunately not all of us live in sunny areas that make sense for solar power. In places like the upper Midwest, Alaska, and Northwest, there's usually not enough sun to make the investment worthwhile. But these areas can be great for wind power. Coastal areas and lake shores especially make a lot of sense for wind generation.
Disadvantages of Wind Power
Yes, you knew they had to come, didn't you? While wind power is easy and affordable, it has some problems with reliability. Take a look at our list below to see why harnessing wind power might not be the best option for you.
Uneven Energy Source
A small percentage of the population lives in a place that is always windy. So what happens when you don't have wind? You could, of course, go back to regular electricity to fuel your everyday needs - although that's a quite counter-productive alternative.
Few Places are Good for Wind
Wind generators are easy to install, yes, but you can't just put them in any old place. You have to put them where they will catch some wind. However, maybe your roof is blocked by a tall building next door and little wind gets past it? Also, many folks think where they live is windy, but it is in fact just gusty. Wind generators need fairly constant, gusty winds.Local Codes and Zoning
Unfortunately, you might just live in a place that won’t allow it. Sometimes homeowner associations or municipal zoning forbid the use of alternative energy generators on your property. Sadly, there's no way around this obstacle.
More Wind = Difficult Installation
Remember how one of the advantages of wind power is easy installation? Well, in order to have a good generator, it has to be in a place that has a lot of wind. That generally means it has to be high. This also means it may be difficult to install, so consider contacting a wind specialist.Moving Parts = Maintenance
Unlike solar which has no moving parts, the movement in a wind system is actually what generates the electricity. The blades and gears need maintenance, sometimes replacement, and regular inspection
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