Archive for EA
Aeroturbines for Urban Application
Posted by: | CommentsOne of the biggest disadvantages of wind energy is the cost and difficulty to incorporate a traditional wind turbine system in an urban setting. Small building sites, height restrictions and dense development make it extremely challenging to incorporate a large, tall wind system into a project.
Aerotecture International has developed 1 KW and 1.8 KW areoturbines that are perfect for urban application. The 5′ x 10′ units are mounted directly to the building structure and can be mounted in a horizontal or vertical orientation. Basic requirements are minimal wind obstructions, an average site windspeed of 10 mph and a 40′ height at the installation point.
The catch is the cost, estimated to be $15,000 and $20,000, respectively, for the 1 KW and 1.8 KW models (not including delivery and install), and a windspeed requirement of 32 mph to hit their rated outputs.  According to the manufacturer, costs ‘will dramatically decrease with the advent of mass production’.
Here’s a video of the product in action:
Any thoughts?
Government Incentives for Alternative Energy
Posted by: | CommentsWe’re often asked what government grants and incentives are available to a client when evaluating solar and wind installations.
Here are two websites where we start our research on the availability of these funds and programs:
The Database of State Incentives for Renewable Energy & Efficiency (DSIRE). DSIRE is an easily searchable database of state-level incentives available to organizations and individuals. This site has a solar focus,but wind programs are outlined, too.
The US Deparment of Energy’s Wind & Hydropower Technologies Program site, Wind Powering America. In addition to federal, state and regional program outlines, there’s a great amount of educational and reference information on this site.  As an interesting side note, WindTurbines.net is a Wind Powering America supporting partner that offers a social networking platform to the public and all Wind Powering America program participants.
One shouldn’t, however, assume that the funds outlined on DSIRE (or any government website) are available. In many instances, a set amount of funds are set aside for a particular program the funds may already have been spent or committed.
But, knowing the programs that are available gives you a reference point when starting your journey through the bureaucracy.
