Wind power for my home? Compact?

Question

Hi! I am being killed by my power bills and I need to find alternatives. I live in northern Maryland, so solar might not be an option for me, or so I have been told (too cloudy). So, in looking for other options, wind power looks like an option. I live on top of a hill and get a crazy amount of wind year round. Is there any kind of a low profile wind driven device I could look into? I live in a neighborhood, so I am sure my neighbors would object to a massive windmill. I have seen something that looks like an upside down bucket with slats cut in it. Don't know what it is called... Any thoughts?

Answer 1

popular machanics had an issue out several months ago with a single home windmill.  You might start there  sorry I am no help still trying to get my solar system working

Answer 2

Solar pv is capable of generating even in cloudy conditions but the output is much reduced and the technology is still expensive per kW. Wind power is a much more cost effective option but you need to consider a number of factors. You can download a pdf booklet on some of the things to consider from the source below. It was written for an Irish audience but covers the basics.

Answer 3

You might want to look into this site.http://www.awea.org/faq/rsdntqa.html

This site will help answer most of your questions.  For the wind turbines really to be beneficial and work at their max potential your area should receive 20 mph wind on average per day year round.

Answer 4

not compact, just so you know.

Answer 5

Jay Leno added a small compact wind power generator to his garage. Check out this website: http://www.popularmechanics.com/automoti...

The guy one it desing and produce wind generators.