Wind
energy converts kinetic energy that is present
in the wind into more useful forms of energy
such as mechanical energy or electricity. Wind
energy is a pollution-free, infinitely
sustainable form of energy. It doesn’t use
fuel; it doesn’t produce greenhouse gasses,
and it doesn’t produce toxic or radioactive
waste.
Windmills
that were used to grind grain are an example of
early uses of wind energy. Modern uses of wind
energy include generation of electricity and
pumping water. Current wind energy machines are
called "wind turbine generators",
"wind pumps", or more generally,
"wind turbines".
The
nature of wind energy
Wind
energy is the kinetic energy that is present in
moving air. The amount of potential energy
depends mainly on wind speed, but is also
affected slightly by the density of the air,
which is determined by the air temperature,
barometric pressure, and altitude.
For
any wind turbine, the power and energy output
increases dramatically as the wind speed
increases. Therefore, the most cost-effective
wind turbines are located in the windiest areas.
Wind speed is affected by the local terrain and
increases with height above the ground, so wind
turbines are usually mounted on tall towers.
A
few things to consider.
1.
DO I HAVE A GOOD SITE?
Siting a wind generator is extremely important to the
performance of the machine. It is the difference
between a machine that give you lots of energy and a
garden sculpture. The ideal location for a wind
turbine is 20’ above any surrounding object within a
250 foot radius. This generally means your property
should be at least one acre in size. 2. DO I HAVE THE RIGHT WIND RESOURCE? Wind
is the “fuel” for your wind generator. You should
have at least a 15 km/h average wind speed at your
location. Wind maps are available for many
countries which will give you an idea of the wind
resource at your house
3.
WHAT INCENTIVES AND PROGRAMS DOES MY UTILITY OFFER?
the local utility (company you pay your electrical
bill to) may purchase any excess electricity from you.
There are both utilities that encourage the use of
wind systems and discourage it. Locate your electrical
bill and then find the number for customer service.
Ask them for a copy of the policy relating to
“connecting a renewable energy system to the
electrical grid”.
Ontario
residence are encouraged to incorporate sustainable
energy systems and are encouraged to take advantage of
Standard Offer Contract or Net Metering
programs.
Contact
our Customer Care at Tel. 416.425.8159 or email info@spherebusiness.com
to request information.
What
is Net Metering?
2. DO I HAVE THE RIGHT WIND RESOURCE? Wind
is the “fuel” for your wind generator. You should
have at least a 15 km/h average wind speed at your
location. Wind maps are available for 
nET
mETERING