Thinking About Solar or Wind?

WIND

Wind farms are becoming more efficient at generating electricity. Wind, however, has its limitations. Backup generating resources are still necessary because the wind doesn't blow 24 hours a day. As technology evolves, however, wind has the ability to play an important role in electric generation once the energy can be captured and stored in an economical manner. Due to the growing interest in consumer-owned wind generation, ACEC feels obligated to point out some important considerations.

Plan ahead before making an investment. If you are interested in installing a wind generator for the purpose of selling electricity back to the Cooperative, you will need to review detailed plans with our staff. Interconnection with utility lines requires considerable planning and will involve additional equipment and metering. Any device that introduces electric energy onto the Cooperative's power lines must be interconnected in a way that does not pose an electrocution hazard to our employees.

Do your research. The power in the wind varies greatly from one location to another. Although it seems like the wind is always blowing, there are many things to consider, such as the terrain, the site's elevation, any buildings or natural obstructions, access to prevailing winds and wind speed.

The following websites contain valuable information about wind generation:

• Iowa Energy Center

• US DOE Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy

• US DOE Wind Energy Program

• National Renewable Energy Laboratory

• Download article by Cooperative Research Network