Traditional energy sources are on their way out. Fossil fuel costs are shooting up because we are running low on them, so we need to prepare for the future. We need to change the way we think about how we get our energy and how much we are using to change our lifestyles into sustainable lifestyles.
There are some people who have already started thinking this way. New scientific breakthroughs in renewable energy are allowing us to create sustainable energy at lower and lower costs. Using the right set of plans even homeowners who don't know anything about construction or electricity can build their own alternative energy sources right in their backyards, such as wind power generators.
Wind turbines can be made to reduce the average home's electricity bill by as much as 70%. They can be built, using economical plans, for as little as $200 using pre-used parts. The most expensive part might be a DC motor which can cost as little as $30. They can be built with basic tools and parts from a local hardware store. You can estimate the amount of power a generator creates using the following formula:
Power(Watts) = (Wind Speed)^3 * (Blade Diameter)^2 * 0.00478
The speed of the wind makes the most difference because its value is cubed, then the blade diameter because its value is squared. Example calculation using a decent wind speed of 10mph and an 8 ft blade diameter:
W = (10*10*10) * (8*8) * 0.00478 = 305 watts/hour - x 24 hours and you can calculate 7.3 kWh generated per day by a wind power generator.
On average, an American home might use 14-20 kWh per day. If you start conserving your power, you might use much less depending on the size of your home. Even with little wind speed in your area, you should be able to build a wind turbine that can significantly reduce your power bill for as little as $200. Wind power generators are cost-effective, to be sure.
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