Wind power is the conversion of wind energy into a useful electrical form, which in many cases means using wind turbines to create power for a home. A wind turbine collects kinetic (motion) energy from the wind and converts it to electricity that is compatible with a residential or commercial electrical system. Homeowners using a wind turbine to generate electricity can maintain service with their local utility provider. Backup power from both ensures the customer the best overall performance.

Net Metering

When the turbine produces more electricity than your household needs, your utility company can institute a policy called "net metering" whereby the surplus electricity is sold back to the grid. All of this takes place automatically once your wind turbine is fully installed by your dealer and connected to your electric utility.

What if there is no wind?

If the wind speed is below the minimum needed to spin the blades, there will be no output from the turbine. In these instances, your utility company can provide for all of your power needs. As wind speeds increase, turbine output increases and the amount of power purchased from the utility is proportionately decreased.

The Technology

Wind can provide safe, clean and affordable power. What’s more, in areas with good wind conditions, onshore wind power can actually cost less than conventional power generation. However, to make the most of wind power, businesses and governments need to work together to build capacity in areas where the wind blows strongly, such as the Great Plains in the US. These projects, in turn, need to be connected to population centers by power lines.