Text Box: Wind Turbine

Last Updated:  Saturday, August 23, 2008

During our first decade in the home we enjoyed low utility bills because of resource efficient design.  In 2006 we decided to add renewable energy generation.

We installed a Skystream 3.7 wind turbine manufactured by Southwest Windpower.   The unit is rated at 1.8 kW.   In our area the average annual wind speed is about 11 mph, which should produce about 250 kWh/month.  Our unit has reduced output due to adjacent trees.  We will be upgrading to a taller tower in the fall of 2007.

The unit outputs 240V AC and connects to a double pole breaker in the electrical panel.  The power it produces displaces purchased power or can spin the meter backward if we produce more power than we use.       Informational flyer posted next to our unit (pdf file)

Real Time Skystream Power Production Data Links (click text below):
 
Westbrook House Skystream     (data transmitter down in August 07—turbine still working)
 
Skystream near windy Amarillo, TX                  
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            
See all of the INSTALLATION PHOTOS

Installed and operating on Sep 6th, 2006

Installation team:
Foundation installation and erection
The Morgan Group Construction
www.tmgconst.com
Zack Amick
(972) 772-9089

Electrical Installation
Trinity Lighting and Electrical
Terry Bejcek
(972) 346-2725

Foundation Design
Structural Studio Consulting Engr
www.structuralstudio.com
Nigel Brown
(214) 273-0300

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Dallas Observer
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EC&M Magazine
Denton Record-Chronicle