Wind Power on Islands
Wind power is the conversion of wind energy into more useful forms, usually electricity, using wind turbines. Most modern wind power is generated in the form of electricity by converting the rotation of turbine blades into electrical current by means of an electrical generator. Wind turbines range from small four hundred watt generators for residential use (Image 1) to several megawatt machines (Image 2) for wind farms. Small scale turbines are available that are approximately 7 feet (2 m) in diameter and produce 900 watts. Units are lightweight, e.g. 16 kilograms (35 lbs), allowing rapid response to wind gusts and are easy to mount, much like a television antenna.
Cost of implementing a Wind Power System on your Island
In 2004, wind energy cost one-fifth of what it did in the 1980s, and some expected that downward trend to continue as larger multi-megawatt turbines are mass-produced. However, installation costs have increased from $1,200 to $1,600 per KW. Much like solar power investment in wind turbines requires a high initial investment but maintenance costs are minimal.
Some island owners use a 400kw system to power their island homes. This size of system is great for island cottages where minimal island power is needed. However, most island homes require a larger system. For a regular sized home a rule of thumb is that 1 kilowatt of wind can cost anywhere between $7,000-10,000 installed for a straightforward installation. For the home that consistently sees a $36 monthly bill (300kWh), an appropriately chosen 1 or 1.5 kW turbine at a height and location that provides 14 mph winds, could generate up to 80% of the electricity needed (approximately 3,000 kWh). This type of system would cost approximately a $11,000-15,000 to install. The average home that sees $84-$108 monthly bill (700-900 kWh), should start considering a turbine in the 5-15kW range. This type of system costs $40,000 or more. Therefore it is important that conservation and wind power are used in tandem.
Source: http://www.repowersolutions.com/faqs.html
