Residential Wind Power - System Overview

What are the Basic Parts of a Small Wind Electric System?

To capture and convert the wind's kinetic energy into electricity, wind energy systems generally comprise turbine which generates electrical power (a rotor attached to a generator or alternator mounted on a frame and using a tail to keep it pointed into the wind), a high and sturdy tower to lift it above any ground turbulence and into the faster air flow that comes with increased elevation,  a controller to charge a battery bank that stores the power generated as DC, an inverter to convert the stored DC power into useful AC power, and all the other wiring and the "balance of system" components common to renewable energy systems: disconnects, fuses, breakers, panels, meters, and wiring.

Wind blowing over the blades causes them to lift and rotate.  The rotor captures the kinetic energy of the wind and converts it into rotary motion to drive the generator. Most modern turbines are sleek horizontal axis upwind machines that have two or three blades, which are usually made of a composite material such as fiberglass or carbon fiber. The amount of power a turbine will produce is determined primarily by the diameter of its rotor. The diameter of the rotor defines its "swept area," or the quantity of wind intercepted by the turbine. The turbine's frame is the structure onto which the rotor, generator, and tail are attached. The tail keeps the turbine facing into the wind.

Small wind systems are used for both off-grid and grid-tie systems.  In many locations hybrid systems that may also include solar panels and a generator are used to ensure a “round-the-clock” electricity supply for off-grid systems or used in a grid-tie system with the excess power not being consumed sold back to the utility company.

Wind is a completely renewable fuel source and produces no health risks and no air pollution.

Contact us by Phone (907)561-7941, Fax (907)561-7946, Email or U.S. Postal Mail 145 West Dimond, Anchorage, AK, 99515

Federal solar tax credits extended thru 2008!