How Wind Turbines Developed
Long before electricity was ever thought of, wind was being used for its innate power by many civilizations. The earliest known windmills were to be found in Persia where they were utilized in water pumping and grain production around 500-900AD. Considering the strides which we have made in technology since then it is surprising that so little has changed within the design of wind turbines; it’s not a huge leap to make when the basic design of a windmill and a wind turbine are compared. The first wind turbine for generating electricity was created in the USA in 1888 and was a huge structure capable of outputting 12kw with its 17 metre rotor; whilst this was an incredible achievement at the time it is put in context when we consider how much electricity is generated by similarly sized wind turbines today which is usually between 70 and 100kw.
Wind Turbines Today
Throughout the twentieth century there was a furious battle going on across the world as engineers attempted to harness wind energy in the most effective way. Various enormous wind turbines were created and run with differing degrees of success across Europe in a response to the shortage of fossil fuel after the war, but it is only in relatively recent years that wind turbines have developed sufficiently to change habits with many householders investing in small scale domestic versions to help reduce carbon footprints and electricity bills. The trend for “green living” has fuelled a surge of interest in the wind turbine and the potential for saving money and power, both of which are naturally appealing to the average environmentally aware householder.
Wind Turbines in New Homes
With a growing market in Europe there are now many new houses being built with a wind turbine as an integral part of the house itself. Eco homes are growing in popularity due to the sensible and money saving measures taken when planning and building them. With fuel costs rising and energy sources under strain, it makes more sense than ever to new home owners to consider what measures they can take as individuals when designing or building their new home. Adding a small wind turbine to new builds need not be an extreme cost either, with government grants available in some circumstances, the case for domestic wind power is stronger than ever. Planning permission is very often required and careful inspection of local by-laws should always be a priority when looking at a possible site for any new home. It is also a good idea to speak to any near neighbours with regards to your plans; some wind turbines can generate a lot of noise although with the latest design this is far les of a problem than in the past.
Can Wind Turbines save you Money?
Green energy is an undeniably good thing; saving on fossil fuels it is not only good for our planet but is also cheaper to run and can bring some unexpected financial bonuses. If you are fortunate enough to live in an area where there is a surfeit of wind and your turbine produces more energy than you actually use, then you can in some cases sell the remainder to the national grid. Another basic fact is that a reduction in your electricity bills is unavoidable with wind turbines harnessing free energy for your home.
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