Residential Wind Turbine Blog

Sunforce 400 Watt Land Wind Generator (Pack of 3)

2009-10-07T05:32:00.049-04:00

If you need to produce electricity at a remote location or simply wish to lower your power bill, the Sunforce 400 Watt Land Wind Generator (Pack of 3) is an ideal renewable energy solution. Each generator will have an average monthly output of 38 KWH given an average 12 mph wind speed (start speed is 8 mph). As your wind speeds increase so does the energy output. This product is virtually maintenance free having only two moving parts. Assembly is required but this generator is easily installed to any sturdy pole, building or for optimal energy production the Sunforce 44455 Wind Generator 30-Foot Tower. To store your clean pollution free power 12-volt batteries (not included) are required.

This product is currently listed on Amazon for $1791.38 USD. Ships from and sold by GreenCupboards.

Here is the Amazon product description:

A light weight portable and quiet wind generator ideal for charging your batteries.

For more information on the Sunforce 400 Watt Land Wind Generator (Pack of 3), visit the product details page.

Sunforce Air X Marine Wind Turbine

2009-09-07T17:07:00.016-04:00

The Sunforce Air X Marine Wind Turbine is another great personal wind turbine from Southwest Windpower. It has a small form factor and a stylish look that will turn heads when mounted on your bow or anywhere else on your boat. It has a smart controller built in so it can control the blades rotation speed which helps cut down on noise and it starts making electricity at just 6 knots or 7 miles per hour wind speed.

Also included is a great 3 year warranty! This is a wind turbine that will be around for years to come guaranteed! The current Amazon price is just $719.60 USD.

Here is the Amazon Product Description:

The Sunforce AIR X Marine Wind Turbine is the world's number one selling small wind turbine for sailboats. The unit incorporates a new microprocessor based technology that results in increased performance, improved battery charging capability, greater reliability and the reduction of "flutter" noise from the machine. The controller allows for peak-power tracking of the wind by optimizing the alternator's output on all points of the cubic curve and efficiently delivers the energy to the battery. The turbine's smart controller allows it to actually control blade rotation speed thus eliminating the buzzing noise commonly found with most small wind turbines.

For more information on the Sunforce Air X Marine Wind Generator, visit the product details page.

Sunforce Air X Wind Generator - 24 Volt, Model# 44445

2009-08-07T11:00:00.003-04:00

The Sunforce Air X Wind Generator - 24 Volt, Model# 44445 is a really nice wind turbine by Sunforce. It's great for cabins or really any home where you have steady wind. If you are looking for a 24 volt wind generator you should consider it.

With a nice small form factor, its short 13 inch long blades and a overall diameter of just 46 inches, it doesn't take up much space. The blades are made of carbon fiber and this helps to cut down on wind noise. This model produces up to 400 watts which is great for such a small sized wind generator.

It is currently priced on Amazon for just $599.99. Here is the Amazon product description:

Use the wind to generate power and run your appliances and electronics. Great for cabins, 24V battery charging, remote power, backup power and hobbyists. Delivers up to 400 Watts. U.S.A. Application: Appliances and electronics, Volts: 24, Watts: 400, Blade Material: Carbon fiber composite, Speed (MPH): 110, Blade Diameter (in.): 46, Material: Lightweight cast aluminum, Dimensions L x W x H
(in.): 24 x 15 x 9, Overspeed/Overcrank Shutdown: Electronic torque control

For more information on the Sunforce Air X Wind Generator - 24 Volt, Model# 44445, visit the product details page

Sunforce 44444 12-Volt 400-Watt Wind Generator

2009-03-23T11:04:00.016-04:00

The Sunforce 44444 12-Volt 400-Watt Wind Generator is a 12 volt, 400 W wind turbine that was also developed by Southwest Windpower of Flagstaff, Arizona in the United States. It uses wind to generate power and run your appliances and electronics.

This home wind generator running at an average wind speed of 15 mph will generate 50-60 watts per day at 2 to 3 amps. This wind generator does not connect to the grid and it is suggested by the manufacturer that it be used as a compliment to home solar power.

Price Update: September 25, 2009

This product currently sells on Amazon for ~~$799.99~~ $470.72 USD. I don't know if this is a temporary procing change or not, but I just noticed that this model has been discounted by 41%. I don't often see price drops like that on Amazon.

Here's the Amazon product description.

"The Sunforce 44444 400 Watt Wind Generator uses wind to generate power and run your appliances and electronics. Constructed from lightweight, weatherproof cast aluminum, this generator is also a great choice for powering pumps or charging batteries for large power demands. With a maximum power up to 400 watts or 27 amps, this device features a fully integrated regulator that automatically shuts down when the batteries are completely charged. The 44444 is virtually maintenance free with only two moving parts, and the carbon fiber composite blades ensure low wind noise while the patented high wind over speed technology guarantees a smooth, clean charge. Assembly is required, but this generator installs easily and mounts to any sturdy pole, building, or the Sunforce 44455 Wind Generator 30-Foot Tower Kit. The 44444 uses a 12-volt battery (not included) and measures 15 x 9 x 27 inches (WxHxD)."

"Use the wind to generate power and run your appliances and electronics. Great for cabins, 12V battery charging, remote power, backup power and hobbyists. Delivers up to 400 Watts. U.S.A. Application: Appliances and electronics, Volts: 12, Watts: 400 at 28 MPH, Blade Material: Carbon fiber composit, Speed (MPH): 110, Blade Diameter (in.): 46, Material: Lightweight cast aluminum body, Dimensions L x W x H (in.): 24 x 15 x 9, Overspeed/Overcrank Shutdown: Electronic torque control."

For more information on the Sunforce 44444 12-Volt 400-Watt Wind Generator, visit the product details page.

Earth4Energy DIY Wind Generator

2008-07-19T15:19:00.019-04:00

As a follow-up to last month's post: Build Your Own Residential Wind Turbine, a new guide called Earth4Energy has just been released that provides step-by-step instructions for creating your own Earth4Energy DIY wind generator. The reason I wanted to blog about this similar product is that not only will this manual show you how to build your own wind turbine, but it will also provide step-by-step instructions on how to build your own DIY solar panels.

The reality of trying to power your home with wind is that the wind isn't always blowing. For this reason, renewable energy experts often say that wind and solar is often a good combination. Often the sun may be shining when the wind has calmed down and vice versa. A guide that will take you through the process of building your own wind turbine and building your own solar panels seems like a very valuable resource to me!

If you buy Earth4Energy, you can be up and running with residential wind power and residential solar power at a fraction of the cost of buying commercial products. Let's break it down. At a cost of $49.97 for the manual, $200 for materials to make a wind generator, $200 for the materials to make solar panels and a couple of weekends to actually work your way through the process, you should be able to reduce your electricity bill by at least 80%!

From the website:

"With the ever increasing costs of living there is no better time then right now to start producing our own electricity. Whether you want to simply reduce your power bills or completely eliminate them - Earth4Energy has a solution for you."

"Why pay $1000's for solar power or wind power when you can build your own professional system for less then $200!"

Build Your Own Residential Wind Turbine

2008-06-16T14:52:00.016-04:00

Although we haven't exhausted the list of available residential wind turbines, I wanted to make you aware of another direction you could go. A little bit more adventurous and not nearly as expensive, you could build your own residential wind turbine. It's amazing when you do a little bit of research and find out a lot of people are doing just that!

There are many resources available to guide you through the process step by step. One such resource is titled: Home Made Energy. The gentleman who wrote the book is Bill Ford and he doesn't just want to teach you how to make your own turbine ... he wants to teach you how to do it on the cheap! He promises to show you how to build your own residential wind turbine (1,000 watts) for less than $150.00 and a 3,000 watt wind turbine for about $220.00! That also includes the instructions and cost of building the tower.

I haven't read the book or gone through the process of building one of his turbines, but he claims you can make the three blades required for free in about an hour. He also provides tips on how to find a free forklift battery and recondition it for your power supply. He gives tips on what kind of generator you need and how to get the best prices.

Another resource available is Efficient Planet Guide To Building Your Own Wind Generator. The author's name is Edward Fowler and he claims that other plans he's seen are just too complicated. He promises easy to use instructions that will show you exactly how to build your own residential wind turbine (1,000 watts) for less than $100.00.

Freetricity E2D WindMaster

2008-05-18T10:28:00.023-04:00

Freetricity is a company based in Hemet, California introduced their new residential wind turbine, the Freetricity E2D Windmaster. The E2D Windmaster is a roof-mounted turbine at a very reasonable cost.

Freetricity lists five different WindMaster Wind Turbines on their website ranging from $1399 to $3499. The E2D 12 Volt DC System is touted as "The perfect starter system" at a very affordable price of $1399.00. The E2D 24 Volt DC System is priced at $1699.00. Branded as "The Rolls Royce of battery based systems", the E2D 48 Volt DC System is listed at $2299.00. Although not currently available, the E2D 1800 watt Grid Connect System will come with a price tag of $2999.00 and the E2D 2500 watt Grid Connect System is available at a cost of $3499.00.

From the news release announcing the WindMaster product line:

"WindMaster is available in four different power packages. The Grid Connects unique design is the most convenient system and supplies the most kilowatt-hours of power of all the packages. Simply mount the wind turbine to your roof, wire it to the grid connect inverter, and wire the inverter into the supply panel. The power generated by the WindMaster is supplied to your homes supply panel first; however, if it generates more power than you are currently using it will spin your meter backwards. Your electric company will then give you credit or cash for the power you generate."

"The 12-Volt, 24 and 48-Volt packages are battery-based systems. They charge the battery first then supply the users home with the stored voltage and current through a DC to AC inverter. The 12-Volt Basic package is the starter system and because it is easy to regulate the output of the WindMaster, it can be upgraded to any other E2D system. This upgrade ability applies to all system packages and is unique to the renewable industry."

For more information on the Freetricity E2D WindMaster, visit their website at http://www.freetricity.com.

Mariah Power Windspire

2008-04-18T14:09:00.013-04:00

Mariah Power, based in Reno, Nevada, is the manufacturer of the Mariah Power Windspire. Their uniquely-designed Windspire turbine stands 30 feet tall with a radius of only 2 feet. Windspire, touted by the manufacturer as being "distinguished by its sleek propeller-free design, ultra quiet operation, rugged construction, and affordable pricing", is listed at $3,995.00. Other benefits listed on the company website include: ease of installation, ease of maintenance and high quality.

In a unique marketing twist, Mariah Power suggests using Windspires "in an array" and in essence creating your own mini wind farm.

Residential

"Use one or more Windspires to power your home. Place them in the back yard, or display them in front of your home. Line a path, driveway, or your entry, using Windspires as power-generating pillars. Great for homes in the country, but also appropriate for many suburban and urban settings."

Business

"Set up an array of Windspires in front of your building to provide you with electricity. Use this attractive form of renewable energy to visibly display your corporation's values and environmental responsibility, while lowering your energy bills."

Kinetic Sculptures for Resorts, Hotels, Office Towers, etc.

"A group of Windspires arranged artistically in an array, painted with custom colors, can form a novel display of renewable energy that provides usable electricity, visual appeal, and a strong message to passers-by. Take your outdoor display to a new level by incorporating Windspires."

Another unique feature of this particular turbine is a built-in wireless modem.

"Sometimes it can be nice to know how much energy you’re producing each month, let alone how much you made from that big windstorm last week. A click of your computer can provide you all of that. The Windspire has a built-in wireless modem that’s always transmitting power production information. Any computer with a WiFi modem can pick up the signal within 330 feet and read the output. It doesn’t get any simpler."

For more information on the Mariah Power Windspire, visit their website at http://mariahpower.com.

MWP Aeropoint Turbine

2008-03-19T09:27:00.011-04:00

Marquiss Wind Power (MWP), based in Folsom, California, manufactures a unique series of ducted wind turbines called MWP Aeropoint Turbine. These turbines stand 19 feet tall, are square in shape and were designed for use on rooftops in a commercial or industrial setting. According to their website, Marquis Wind Power is targeting commercial buildings of 1-3 stories in the United States to take advantage of "some of the windiest real estate in the country".

The three products listed are: the AeropointT500, AeropointT1000 and AeropointT1500. The AeropointT500 is rated at 5Kw and is said to work well in average wind speeds of 6-10 MPH. The AeropointT1000 is rated at 10Kw and is designed to work optimally in areas with higher average wind speeds. There are no details listed about the AeropointT1500, but it is scheduled to be released in the first quarter of 2009. Prices are not given for the Aeropoint series of wind turbines, but the manufacturer boasts an ROI of 2-7 years and payback twice as fast as solar. If those numbers ring true, there will be a bright future for this product line.

More details from the manufacturer.

"Marquiss Wind Powers’ product line is the Aeropoint series. These Ducted Wind Turbines (DFWT) stand 19 feet tall and are specifically designed to take advantage of commercial settings and turbulent wind flows associated with rooftops. MWPs aerodynamic design allows it to continue to re-orient itself to harness the changing wind flow directions and turbulence, while the ducted design and other patented technologies enable the turbine to effectively accelerate the wind speed as it approaches the turbine."

"These factors combine to allow the power output from the MWP turbine to exceed that of any traditionally designed comparable turbine. Depending on the power needs of a company or building, multiple wind turbines can be placed on a building’s rooftop."

For more information on the MWP Aeropoint Turbine, visit the Marquiss Wind Power website at http://www.marquisswindpower.com.

Whisper 500 Home Wind Generator

2008-01-20T22:13:00.010-05:00

The Whisper 500 Home Wind Generator is a larger wind turbine developed by Southwest Windpower of Flagstaff, Arizona in the United States. The product was formerly the Whisper 175 and was completely redesigned in 2004 to operate optimally in extremely high winds.

This home wind turbine is designed to produce at almost any wind speed. The output can be as much as 500 kWh per month in average wind speeds of 12mph average wind speed. 500 kWh per month is enough to power an average home in California.

UPDATE: September 25, 2009

The Whisper 500 Home Wind Generator is now being sold at the Alternative Energy Store for $7,675.00. Check out the product page for more information.

Additional information from the manufacturer:

"The Whisper 500 is NOT for the novice. Installation of the turbine requires concrete foundations and at times a crane to lift the wind turbine into place."

"Solar and wind resources often compliment each other. Generally when it is sunny it is calm and when it is cloudy it is windy. This complimentary effect is even greater during seasonal changes. During the winter and spring when the sun is at its least exposure, the wind is at it highest. A Whisper 500 during these periods is essential to keep your batteries charged and your lights on."

For more information on the Whisper 500 Home Wind Generator, visit the product details page at http://www.windenergy.com/products/whisper_500.htm.

Whisper 200 Home Wind Generator

2007-12-20T21:51:00.013-05:00

The Whisper 200 Home Wind Generator is a another wind turbine developed by Southwest Windpower of Flagstaff, Arizona in the United States. The product was formerly the Whisper H80 and was renamed and updated in 2005.

This home wind turbine is designed to operate in average wind speeds of as low as 8 mph and will generate 6.8 kWh per day in a 12mph average wind speed. The output is double the production of the Whisper 100 running in similar conditions, and, although the 200 product is not as quiet, it offers the same ease of installation.

UPDATE: September 25, 2009

The Whisper 200 Home Wind Generator is now being sold at the Alternative Energy Store for $2,955.00. Check out the product page for more information.

Additional information from the manufacturer:

"Unlike many other small wind systems, the Whisper 200 ships with a controller that includes a diversion load to ensure quiet safe operation of your wind turbine when the batteries are charged."

"It installs in minutes and it protects both your wind turbine and battery. The Whisper controller fits easily inside your battery room. Add the optional LCD display and you will instantly receive real time data on the performance of your Whisper 200."

For more information on the Whisper 200 Home Wind Generator, visit the product details page at http://www.windenergy.com/products/whisper_200.htm.

Sunforce 44447 900W Whisper Wind Turbine

2007-11-19T11:06:00.013-05:00

The Sunforce 44447 900W Whisper Wind Turbine is a 900 W wind turbine that was also developed by Southwest Windpower of Flagstaff, Arizona in the United States. It is a rebranded version of the Whisper 100 Home Wind Generator which was formerly the Whisper H40.

This home wind turbine requires an average wind speed of 12 mph and will generate 3.4 kWh per day in such conditions. This wind generator does not connect to the grid and it is suggested by the manufacturer that it be used as a compliment to home solar power. The manufacturer boasts that: "the Whisper 100 is one of the quietest wind turbines ever tested" and is a breeze to install.

Price Update: September 25, 2009

This product currently sells on Amazon for ~~$2,300~~ $2,199.99 USD. Here's the Amazon product description.

"The Sunforce 44447 Whisper 100 900 Watt Wind Generator uses wind to generate power and run your appliances and electronics. Constructed from lightweight, weatherproof cast aluminum, this generator is also a great choice for powering pumps or charging batteries for large power demands. With a maximum power up to 900 watts or 60 amps, this device features a fully integrated regulator that automatically shuts down when the batteries are completely charged. The 44447 is virtually maintenance free with only three moving parts, and the carbon fiber composite blades ensure low wind noise while the double-sealed ball bearings guarantees a smooth, clean charge. Assembly is required, but this generator installs easily and mounts to any sturdy pole, building, or the Sunforce 44455 Wind Generator 30-Foot Tower Kit."

"Ultra-quiet wind turbine is designed to operate in a site with medium to high wind speed averages of 12 MPH and greater. Provides 100+ kWh per month (3.4 kWh per day) in a 12 MPH average wind. The Whisper 100 is one of the quietest wind turbines ever tested by the National Renewable Energy Labs. Ideal for cabins, 12V battery charging, remote power and backup power. Adjusts from 12-48V DC and features overspeed protection. Towers or mounting brackets not included. U.S.A."

For more information on the Sunforce 44447 900W Whisper Wind Turbine, visit the product details page.

Helix Wind Turbine

2007-10-04T22:21:00.018-04:00

A helix wind turbine or helix wind generator is a wind energy system for the small wind market manufactured by HelixWind of San Diego, California in the United States. They define small wind as "typically just enough power to meet the demands of a home, farm or small business" and their two products are the Savonious 2.0 (a 2kW system) and the Savonious 5.0 (a 5kW system). The cost of each product is not listed on the company website and it appears as though the patent is still pending for the Savonious 5.0.

According to the company, the unique design of the Helix wind generator provides many advantages over other systems. These turbines can operate at very low wind speeds as their design allows them to harness wind from any direction. As the founder of HelixWind, Ken Morgan, explains in the video below, the turbines operate silently and do not provide the danger to birds that traditional turbines do.

For more information on the Helix Wind Turbine, visit their website at http://www.helixwind.com.

Whisper 100 Home Wind Generator

2007-09-08T21:45:00.021-04:00

The Whisper 100 Home Wind Generator is a 900 W wind turbine that was also developed by Southwest Windpower of Flagstaff, Arizona in the United States. The product was formerly the Whisper H40 and was renamed and updated in 2005.

This home wind turbine requires an average wind speed of 12 mph and will generate 3.4 kWh per day in such conditions. This wind generator does not connect to the grid and it is suggested by the manufacturer that it be used as a compliment to home solar power. The manufacturer boasts that: "the Whisper 100 is one of the quietest wind turbines ever tested" and is a breeze to install.

"The Whisper 100 is designed for even the novice. The Whisper can be installed in just a few hours with no welding, no concrete or cranes. Our engineers designed the work out of installing wind turbines. Now wind is as easy to use as photovoltaics."

Price Update: September 25, 2009

A rebranded version of this product is currently being sold through Amazon. The Sunforce 44447 900W Whisper Wind Turbine sells for ~~$2,300.00~~ $2,1999.99 USD.

For more information on the Whisper 100 Home Wind Generator, visit the product details page at http://www.windenergy.com/products/whisper_100.htm.

Skystream 3.7 Residential Wind Turbine

2007-08-30T12:10:00.028-04:00

The Skystream 3.7 Residential Wind Turbine was released by Southwest Windpower of Flagstaff, Arizona in the United States on June 27, 2006 and was named one of Time Magazine's best inventions for 2006. The product was touted as "the first fully integrated wind generator designed specifically for the grid-connected residential market" by the manufacturer.

"Skystream will change the way many Americans power their homes and take control of their energy costs," said Andrew Kruse, co-founder of Southwest Windpower. "Wind energy for the individual homeowner is finally main-stream."

Skystream is grid-connected, so it supplies power directly to the home power supply and contributes when the turbine is turning. When the turbine is not turning, the home is powered by the electric utility. According to the tech details for the product on Amazon.com, this small wind turbine delivers 1.8 kW rated and 2.4 kW peak power at 20 MPH wind speed. It provides 400 kW per month in a 12 MPH average wind and works in winds as low as 8 MPH.

UPDATED: September 25, 2009

The Skystream 3.7 Residential Wind Turbine ~~sells~~ used to sell on Amazon.com for $5,499.00 USD. It is no longer listed on Amazon, but is was carried by the AltE Store at the list price of $6,212.00. It seems that the major online distributor for the Skystream 3.7 has changed once again. The product is now carried by GoGreenSolar for the same price. You can check out the product page for more details.

Once installation costs are factored in, initial investment will typically be in the range of $12,000 USD to $15,000 USD. Rebates and incentives reduce the purchase price significantly in some areas.

According to the manufacturer:

"Skystream 3.7 can pay for itself in 5 to 12 years. This payback period will vary and can be much quicker in states with investment rebates. It's anticipated that Skystream 3.7 will save the average homeowner $500 to $800 per year, based on 4,800 to 6,600 kWh produced per year and a $0.12/kWh cost of electricity. This output would provide 40 to 90 percent of an average home's energy needs. In states like Hawaii, where the cost of energy and wind speeds are both high, Skystream 3.7 can pay for itself in less than 4 years."

For more information on the Skystream 3.7 Residential Wind Turbine, visit the product website at http://www.skystreamenergy.com.