Wind Energy Basics
Wind resource
Is wind energy right for me?
At Blue Pacific Energy we are passionate about the wind. We would love to provide a wind turbine that will power your home or business for years to come. However, some times wind energy is not the right renewable solution.
These are some of the questions that must be realistically addressed before embarking on a wind energy project.
1. The first step in determining if wind energy is a good decision is how much wind does your location have? Do you have enough wind? Are surrounding objects causing turbulence in the airflow? Ideal conditions are a clean, strong air stream. If you have the wind resource, then a wind turbine makes a wonderful way to generate electricity. If you do not have a solid wind resource, then likely a different renewable energy will be a better choice.
2. The moving parts of a wind turbine make it more efficient than solar panels. However, because there are moving parts, you can expect a maintenance program. The maintenance routine isn’t onerous and we can help by offering Operation and Maintenance packages.
3. The moving parts of a wind turbine will make some sound. The best turbines are quiet, with the sound levels registering at or just above ambient levels, ie.the wind blowing through the trees. We consider the minimal sound levels when we site a turbine. We usually like to have the client visit an existing wind turbine to hear the sound levels to expect.
4. Zoning can also be challenging for some areas. Various counties in the Hawaiian Islands are including wind turbines in their zoning codes. Some counties are further along on that process. The zoning height restrictions are generally the limiting factor. A low tower can limit the amount of wind a turbine can collect. Taller towers allow for better energy production and will make a project financially viable. Another zoning challenge is the setbacks, or how close a turbine can be to the property lines. The setbacks can limit wind turbines to larger lot sizes. Call us for zoning details in your area.
5. Wildlife concerns are ever present on the publics mind as they should be, especially in the Hawaiian Islands were we have a number of endangered birds and bat. Utility sized turbines on the mainland have had negative impacts on birds at certain locations. In Hawaii, the small wind turbines have had no reported impact on birds that we are aware of. This is likely due to a much smaller turbine size, careful siting, and modern towers. As the number of small wind turbines increase, it’s important to continue to monitor the situation.
In conclusion: A turbine will be a great fit if: You have a good wind resource and can use an appropriately tall tower. You understand that a machine requires maintenance and it will create some sound. Wind is an exciting and powerful way to make energy.
Costs and Tax Credits
The costs vary widely with different sized wind turbines and different installation situations. A residential sized wind turbine that is capable of offsetting a significant amount of electricity is roughly $20,000 to $30,000. The upfront cost is reduced by the State and Federal tax credits, up to half of your project cost. With a good wind resource, the investment in a wind turbine gives an excellent return. The tax credits play a large role in the financial picture. Federal and State tax credits decrease the payback period to less than 8 years. Turbine installations for businesses also enjoy accelerated depreciation as well as a higher state tax credit cap. These project payback even sooner.
Example for residential
Example for business