Truthout

Investigative reporting on the world level. For example, this article talks about wind energy potential of places including Nicaragua.

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Wind power

Submitted by Huehuete Bob on 30 August, 2006 - 16:39.

I have been thinking about both wind power and solar. Solar is no problem, but about wind I have some conserns. First is noise because there are neighbors close to where my house is being built. Second is the height of the tower. I have a water tower that is about 8 meters high. Can I attach a turbine to it at that height for a decent output? Do you have any info?

wind power

Submitted by elnido on 31 August, 2006 - 06:52.

The noise factor comes into play thru several items. First is model of turbine, not all are created equal. Your best bet is to research the various models available. From my experience, the ones with the lowest rpms last the longest and are the quietest. Second is height. The higher the better for 2 reasons. First is "cleaner air" or less turbulence. Turbulence will drastically reduce the life of your turbine...the second is higher, more constant wind speeds (more power). My turbine is on a 6 m 3in pipe attached (and reinforced) to my 6 m water tank tower. There is still a little more turbulance than I want, but it doesn't do badly. The only time I hear it is during the worst of the windy season when it turns out of the wind in an attempt to slow down. Then it sounds like an airplane prop changing pitch.

Wind Power

Submitted by Willow on 9 September, 2006 - 03:31.

I looked into this. My litle home is only an acre...the sound of a "windmill"...would drive me crazy...although it is ideal for this sort of power (constant wind)...I would have to build a little mound..or rock island spot quite awayc away to make sure I didn't go insane ! This is sad for me. Can't afford to do it ! I intend to use solar oven.... some solar lights (simple technoloy I can buy inexpensively). But.....if the sound of the waves would mask it..it could be feasible...if affordable. I sure would like my little place Oto be self-sustaining etc. An example.....possible to live off the grid and sustain and thrive. I am no expert but...I know if there is constant wind......well ??? It's the upfront cost. AND TP BE AN EXAMPLE FOR PEOPLE LOCALLY....HOW CAN YOU BE AN EXAMPLE IF THE COST IS SO GREAT....IT IS UNAFFORDABLE ?? K...enough of my dreams Willow

minor detail...

Submitted by no longer registered on 29 August, 2006 - 08:05.

The site name is "truthout" not "trouthout"... :~)