AP Images, Al Goldis
DCL
Get Your Very Own Wind Turbine
Wind turbines are a vital part of our clean energy future--one of the most successful renewable power generators so far, they've already managed to change the way we look at clean energy potential. But they're not just for large scale wind farms or gigantic megawatt-generating projects. There are already a number of wind turbines manufactured specifically for home use. And the best part is, the US government offers a green tax credit to anyone who purchases one to help power their home.
It's quite the solid break, too: when you buy and install a home wind turbine, you can write off 30% of your total expenses. Considering that home wind turbines cost between $600-$12,000, that rebate will certainly come in handy.
As with any fast-growing product market, there are a range of models and prices that turbines are available in--which means there's probably one that will suit your budget, home, and energy needs. Check out TreeHugger's roundup of home wind turbines to get some ideas of what might suit you.
And no matter what any old fashioned interior decorator tells you, home wind turbines are not worthless, wasteful vanity projects. That's the charge some detractors have leveled at wind turbine owners--but considering that these turbines can generate anywhere between 20-60% of the average home's electricity, those charges are nothing short of ridiculous. Many of these fellas will pay for themselves in just a couple of years, in fact, given the electricity you'll save.
Just make sure to hire a professional to install it--this is especially important with wind turbines, given that they'll know how to optimize your unit to best catch the wind. And remember, you get to write off 30% of that cost, too.