Wind Power - ZetaTalk

Wind Power
Click on the image to see a 15-second MPEG video of the Model A wind test experiment
Find an antique
If you find an old windmill for sale, first make sure it's intended for generating electricity instead of
just pumping water. One common old windmill that's often found for sale used is the Wincharger.
The other popular wind generator of the era was the Jacobs. These were of higher quality than
Winchargers--but many of both are still flying today. Several people around the U.S. restore, service
and stock parts for old windmills. And the Jacobs is still being made today! The current production
models are very large and expensive, with over 10 kW output--they are magnificently designed and
built. Check out the Manufacturer's Website for more information and cool pictures.
Electricity producing wind generators were very popular in the 1920s and 1930s all over rural
America. They were available in many different sizes and voltages, and can often be found for sale
in rural farm communities. Most models are quite suitable for a modern remote power system no
matter what voltage they are. If you are able to locate an old wind generator, some basic
maintenance (rust removal, lubrication, and testing) could put it back in working order quickly. They
were built to last--before Rural Electricifation, they were the ONLY source of power for many rural
farms and ranches. Backwoods Home Magazine published an excellent article in 2001 about finding
and restoring old wind generators.
Otherpower.com is always interested in purchasing used wind generators, including these!
Buy a commercial wind generator
Suitable only if you have more money available than time. Prices range from $500 to $5000 for
small-scale wind turbines ranging from 300w up to 5 Kw. Your wind generator retailer should
provide you with LOTS of information regarding many issues if you choose to purchase a wind
generator! Since you will be spending lots of money, it might be wise to survey your site with a
http://www.otherpower.com/otherpower_wind.html (6 of 7) [8/23/2004 9:43:14 PM]