Off Grid Free Wind Systems
Electricity Off-Grid Systems Can Be the Least-Cost Option for Power Needs!
The cost of extending the utility grid to a new home location can be significant, sometimes as high as $20,000-$30,000 for a distance of only one-quarter of a mile. For the same initial investment, a utility-independent renewable energy system can be installed that will meet the electricity needs of an energy-efficient home. Such a system will typically include a combination of a wind turbine, photovoltaics, batteries, an inverter, and a back-up generator. These systems can be cost-effective on a first-cost basis alone, not to mention the avoidance of monthly utility bills for years to come.
The Electric Power Research Institute has gone so far as to suggest that in some cases it may make more economic sense to remove under-used transmission lines in the United States and serve the loads with hybrid stand-alone power systems rather than continuing line maintenance. More information on the economics of small wind systems can be found in the U.S. Department of Energy’s Consumer Guide to Renewable Energy for Your Home or Energy5 and the Iowa Energy Center’s Wind Energy Manual.6See AWEA’s online Small Wind Toolbox7 for descriptions and links to numerous financial incentives including:
- Investment Tax Credits
- Investment Incentives (grants/rebates)
- Revolving Loan Funds
- Sales Tax Reductions
- Property Tax Reductions
