Saturday, December 13, 2008

Using Wind Power To Get Off The Grid

By David Sullivan

Today the catch phrase is going green. Everyone is interested in ways they can be kinder to the planet and still get their energy needs met. Wind power is a renewable energy source and a simple wind turbine will provide power for many years.

Generating electricity with the use of a wind turbine is a good alternative or supplement to solar power. If the sun isn't shining, the wind will likely be blowing. You can save money if you build the wind turbine yourself.

The whole family can help out. If you want to take it further, try to use recycled materials where it is feasible. You can get the parts you need at your local hardware store for less than a couple hundred dollars.

Blades can be made of wood, cardboard or PVC piping. The blades need to be the correct weight for the size of turbine you're making. The base can be made of a wooden or metal pole.

Before you begin, find a good manual that will explain how to build a solid structure. The manual should give you detailed building instructions in a format that is easy to follow. Step by step instructions are the easiest to follow. The manual should include a list of all the materials you'll need to build your wind turbine. Some manuals will offer you alternatives that you can use for building materials. The book should give suggestions on where you may find the needed materials, but you should be able to find most at your local hardware or home improvement store.

Building a wind turbine can be done with some basic knowledge and familiarity with simple power tools. It is a great way to make use of some open space around your home. A wind turbine can be constructed anywhere that the wind will blow. It is a great way to become an active participant in the green movement.

If you have an acre of land or two, you can even build more than one and send energy back to the grid. Your power company will pay for the energy you send to them.

Many people may be missing out on an important and easy to implement way to conserve energy. It is not difficult to do if you have a good set of instructions. You will be doing your part to conserve the environment while cutting the cost of your electricity.

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