Hello,
Let me introduce myself: My name is Richard and I am an economist.
In my free time, I volunteer as a financial advisor for a non-profit organization which
helps families with financial problems.
If you give me five minutes of your time, I will help you asses whether building a home wind turbine is a wise financial choice for your household.
The single most important factor in maintaining financial stability is decreasing expenses, especially the recurring bills (rent, utilities, etc.), which amount to a large sum of money over time.
All home wind turbines lower electricity bills. However, not all domestic wind turbines actually save money; some cost more than they save.
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Can Home Wind Turbines Save Money? |
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A more relevant question is "Can a home wind turbine save you money?"
There are three factors you must consider before answering this question:
- Are you a person of action? Do you follow up on your plans?
- Do you live in a windy place?
- How much will the the wind turbine cost you?
Only you can answer the first question. However, I can help you with the other two:
First, check this map. If you're not in a white colored area, you're good to go. If you are, consider building a solar panel instead.
 Next, use this calculator to find out how much a home wind turbine can save you specifically. This is the maximum amount of money you should spend on it.
Now, you can either build a wind turbine or buy one. I almost invariably recommend building one yourself, simply because it can cost as low as $200, while store-bought turbines cost anywhere between $1,500 and $20,000 according to the Wind Energy
Association.
Building a home wind turbine is a simple, cost-efficient investment that can save a lot of money over time. However, I've found that while many house owners agree, only a handful actually take action. This is the most important part.
"I'm interested in building a wind turbine. What do I do now?"
- Find a Guide
A guide contains vital information, such as where to buy the materials at low prices & how prepare them, and shows exactly how to build the wind turbine. Read below for details.
- Build the Wind Turbine.
The last and most important step is building the wind turbine. Set a free weekend to build it with your family, friends, or cat - it doesn't matter how, as long as you build it.
 "How can I get a guide? Which one should I buy?"
There are many guides, most of which cost $45-$55. I've read the three most popular ones (Earth 4 Energy, Home Made Power Plant, and HomeMadeEnergy).
I prefer Earth4Energy for 3 reasons:
- It's simple, descriptive, and comprehensive. For example, Michael (the author) explains where to buy or find turbine parts at the lowest prices or even for free.
- It comes with step-by-step videos, showing you exactly what to do.
- If you decide not to build a turbine, you can get a refund within 60 days of the purchase.
Earth4Energy is not perfect. For example, even though there are drawings of the construction process, I would have liked to see a few real-life pictures as well. However, I believe it offers the best value at its price range.
Learn more about Earth4energy and how to buy it, or read frequently asked questions about the guide.
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F.U.E (Frequently Used Excuses) |
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“Me? Building a Wind Turbine?! I never built anything in my life.”
Yes, you. Why not?
You don’t have to be an engineer to build a wind turbine. In fact, you don't need almost any preliminary knowledge if you consult a guide.
“I don't know where to buy things / Don't the parts cost a lot?”
Today, there are many online guides that take you by the hand and show you the entire process, step-by-step, from start to finish (including where to buy materials and how much to pay for them). If you know where to look and what to buy, it shouldn't cost more than $200-$300.
“It is a good idea. I'll think about it tomorrow.”
Great, I'm also starting a diet tomorrow! But seriously, “I'll think about it tomorrow” really means “I'll put it off indefinitely.” If you're really interested in building a wind turbine, take the next step now.
“I don't live in a windy place.”
If you live in a particularly non-windy area, consider building a solar panel instead. I also recommend checking your wind map before giving up on a wind turbine.
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Frequently Asked Questions about the Guide |
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“What's an 'Online Guide'?”
An online guide downloaded to your computer in PDF format (requires Adobe Acrobat, which can be downloaded here free of charge). Once you download it, you can either read the guide on your computer screen as many times as you want, or print it out. Online guides have two main advantages: Constant updates and instant access (you don't have to wait for a book in the mail).
“Why should I pay $50 for a guide?”
Yeah, it’s a bit expensive, I agree. If you’re experienced in building a wind turbine, you might not really need a guide. However, if this is your first time, buying a guide is important. Keep in mind that a lot of experience and work have gone in to writing these guide.
“What if I buy the guide and I don’t use it?”
You can ask for a refund within 60 days of the purchase.
You can find more answers at Earth4Energy's FAQ.
Please feel free to ask me any questions you have about this subject email me at richard.bayers at gmail dot com (The address isn't spelled so I don't get spammed by bots). I'm not an expert on wind turbines, but I can help with financial issues. I usually answer within a few days. |
