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 Evaluating
the Site
How's
Your Wind Density?
If
you think your site is windy enough to power a small wind turbine,
odds are you're right -- half the land mass in the United States
has sufficient wind to make a small turbine viable. It's crucial,
however, that the wind on your property is sustained for long periods
at a time.
The Department of Energy measures wind power on a scale of 1
(weakest) to 7. If winds on your site are at least class 2 (annual
wind speeds averaging 9.8-11.5 mph), it may be suitable for wind
generation, subject to other conditions also discussed on this
site.
Go to the
Wind Energy Resource Atlas of the United States to check wind
strength in your general area, or, for western regions only, consult
windpowermaps.org and The
Renewable Energy Atlas of the West. In California, check
California Wind Resource Maps.
Please remember that wind maps give only broad estimates -- the
wind speed on any particular site is largely determined by terrain.
Consult a turbine dealer or put up an anemometer to more thoroughly
research your wind resource.
Do You Have
the Clearance?
A good small wind turbine site is typically
at least one acre in size. Turbines must be mounted at least 30
feet above any physical wind barriers (i,e., trees, buildings,
or bluffs) within 300 feet to avoid air turbulence. Winds are
faster at higher elevations, and wind power increases by a factor
of three as speed increases, so even a small boost in height greatly
enhances a turbine's output.
Most small wind turbine manufacturers recommend
mounting turbines at least 65 feet high, but particular site conditions
should be the primary factor when determining tower height. Towers
from 80 to 120 feet tall may be optimal.
Zoning restrictions on your site may limit
the allowable tower height, requiring you to seek a conditional
use permit or variance from your city or county planning department.
Local authorities have the discretion to issue zoning waivers
for small turbines where appropriate.
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