Small wind turbines are those turbines under 100 kW in rated capacity. Most small wind turbines are usually connected to the electrical system of a house or business.
Questions to Ask When Considering a Small Wind Turbine
NebGuide #2022, published May 2010.
This publication provides questions to ask before buying a small wind generator system for residential, business or farm use.
View this publication
Physics of Small Wind Turbines
Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qx_M0nvDIGU
Small Wind Turbine Case Study and Experiences 2011-2015
This project was made possible through a grant from the U.S. Department of Energy titled Sustainable Energy Options for Rural Nebraska
Installation of 5 kW Wind Turbine
Watch here: https://youtu.be/nKTrT1Tr48k
Incentives for Renewable Energy
1) The Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency
2) Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) through USDA rural development.
Eligibility is for agricultural producers and rural businesses.
USDA REAP/RES/EEI page
Other Resources
- Small Wind Certification Council - SWCC: An independent certification body, certifies that small wind turbines meet or exceed the requirements of the AWEA small wind turbine performance and safety standard.
- National Renewable Energy Laboratory
- North Carolina Wind Energy at Appalachian State University - Small Wind Research and Demonstration Site
- American Wind Energy Association (AWEA): site of the U.S. Wind Trade Group. This comprehensive Web site covers many different aspects of wind energy technology and policy including an extensive section on small wind.
For students with an interest in alternative energy, UNL is now offering an Energy Sciences Minor.
Contact:
John Hay
Extension Educator, Energy & Biofuels
(402) 472-0408
jhay2@unl.edu
Faculty Bio
