Should I Install A Wind Turbine At Home

It doesn't really matter what subject you talk about there are always going to be a wide range of opinions. The pros and cons of alternative energy sources are one of those subjects. Over the last couple of years many people have taken the plunge and built their own wind turbines and solar panels, and swear that it was worth it while others think it's just a waste of time.

I am still trying to work out the technical aspects but the principle is simple, the energy of the wind or the sun is converted to electricity which is then used or stored in a battery for later use.

Wind turbines come in a range of sizes, some small enough for you to use in your own backyard. They also utilise a diversity of shapes, though the most common is the wind mill style. My research tells me that you can build your own turbine in a couple of days for a few hundred dollars, with the majority of the parts you need purchased from your local hardware store. The home owners who have gone down this track claim to have had savings of up to 80% off of their electric bills.

The downside of building your own turbine is the upfront expense, the time and the perceived lack of expertise to pull it off. It's also important to note that while one turbine can help you save money on your utility bill, it won't supply enough electricity for all of your household needs. You will still probably need to pay for some electricity from your utility company.

The other requirement for this to work is wind, and some places have more than others. Even in notoriously windy places there will still be days when you won't generate any electricity. In this case you could supplement the electricity from your turbine with solar panels, or other forms of renewable energy, or just buy it from your utility company.

However, for most people the relatively small investment required to build a wind turbine should turn out to be a good investment. While it may not make you self sufficient, it should give you some control over your ongoing electricity costs as well as bragging rights to all of your friends, and it is one step towards being more ecologically sensitive.