There has been a lot of attention given to small wind power lately, and with good reason. Locally produced power reduces transmission cost and loss. Producing power at individual homes for direct consumption removes inefficiencies endemic to the current grid. Honeywell claims to have made the small wind turbine even better with the release of the WT6500 produced by WindTronics.
This turbine produces power at the blade tips, without gearing to a generator. In small wind, the idea of production happening at the tips is fairly novel, but gearless operation is not new to this product. The appeal of the WT6500, however, is that it comes as a package with all of the electronics needed to connect it to a residential electric system: inverter, power transfer control, and battery management system.
Reduce Electricity Bills by 18 Percent
Honeywell claims this turbine can reduce average yearly consumer electric bills by up to 18 percent. Before running out to purchase the WT6500 based on this claim, consult with a professional to determine if the technology will produce these results in a specific application. Some simple research can determine which site may be correct for small residential wind.
It is important to note that the Honeywell savings claim is based upon locating the turbine in a class 4 wind, though class 3 winds are considered good for residential wind projects. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) produces wind maps for the United States. These wind maps are available on the United States Department of Energy website.
The importance of consulting a professional before installation cannot be stressed enough. Locating a wind turbine in an area noted as class 3 wind or better on the wind map is not the only consideration. Surrounding buildings, trees, and other structures can have a profound effect on performance. Local conditions at the installation site can also reduce performance by 50 percent or more.
Payback for Residential Wind
Honeywell claims this product will pay for itself in savings within 3 years. Based on the amount of power generated, the WT6500 replaces about 3 months of the average consumer's power. There would have to be substantial state and/or local incentives to go along with the Federal Tax Incentives for Renewable Energy. Currently, a 30 percent tax credit can be taken for qualifying small wind installations.
However, money should not be the only consideration. Providing a means to generate power without consuming fossil fuels is a good goal for homeowners. Installing grid connected renewable energy systems allow a homeowner to produce carbon free power, selling excess back to the power company.
While the WT6500 is not the answer to the world's growing energy needs, it represents an interesting idea in a simple package. Field testing will prove whether production claims from Honeywell are accurate. Until then, research and professional consultation are the keys to successful residential renewable energy projects.
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Justin Novak - I graduated from Michigan Technological University in December of 2007 with a Bachelors of Science in Mechanical Engineering. My ...
