Fossil fuels and non-renewable energy sources cannot last forever. We are simply running out of them, and prices are skyrocketing. We need to change the way we use energy and the way we generate energy in order to make sure our lifestyle remains sustainable over the long-term.
Many people have already begun to think this way. Problems that we have previously had with renewable energy have been solved and new engineering breakthroughs have allowed us to take the next steps toward a completely sustainable future.
Using the right set of plans even homeowners who don’t know anything about construction or electricity can build their own alternative energy sources right in their backyards, such as wind power generators.
Homemade wind turbines can currently generate enough power to reduce the average household’s monthly energy bill by as much as 70% per windmill. With inexpensive plans they can also be built for as little as $200 using some recycled parts.
They can also be built with materials from a local hardware store and basic tools. An easy way to estimate how much power your wind generator can create:
Power(Watts) = (Wind Speed)^3 * (Blade Diameter)^2 * 0.00478
The speed of the wind makes the most difference because its value is cubed, then the blade diameter because its value is squared. Example calculation using a decent wind speed of 10mph and an 8 ft blade diameter:
W = (10*10*10) * (8*8) * 0.00478 = 305 watts/hour – x 24 hours and you can calculate 7.3 kWh generated per day by a wind power generator.
On average, an American home might use 14-20 kWh per day. If you start conserving your power, you might use much less depending on the size of your home. Even with little wind speed in your area, you should be able to build a wind turbine that can significantly reduce your power bill for as little as $200. Wind power generators are cost-effective, to be sure.
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