According to the US Department of Energy, a small wind energy system can provide you with a practical and economical source of electricity if:
- your property has a good wind resource
- your home or business is located on at least one acre of land in a rural area
- your local zoning codes or covenants allow wind turbines
- your average electricity bills are $150 per month or more
- your property is in a remote location without easy access to utility lines
- you are comfortable with long-term investments
Sufficient land space usually is an issue due to needing to build a tower for the wind turbine, noise and view issues (as to your family and your neighbors), and zoning and safety issues, including adequate space for the tower to topple over without crossing your property's boundaries. The American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) estimates that the installed cost of an average small wind turbine 10 kW system is $32,000, while the US Dept. of Energy estimates that a 10kW system, including the 80 foot tower, may cost as much as $50,000. A 10 kW Solar Photovoltaic system, in comparison, would have an average cost of $80,000. A US Wind Resource Map can be a helpful resource in determining the potential for wind power on your property. For more information, see this publication from the US Department of Energy.
Please visit Energy Star to find information on Federal Tax Credits for this product.
Small Wind Turbines
systems must meet the following specifications in order to be eligible
for HERO Financing.
Must be listed on California Energy Commission's List of Eligible Small Wind Turbines.
This Eligible Product can be financed over a period of 5, 10, 15, or 20 years.
Look-up specific model