Question by global_doc:
What is the ideal affordable source for light-weight, small wind turbines to generate electricity?
I want to explore the feasibility for using wind power in my particular urban setting where one finds both reliably moderate-to-high wind speeds and a high need for electricity. The general question I need to answer is whether an affordable local solution can generate electricity affordably enough to compete on cost with electricity generated at remotely located wind farms. If so, the local solution could contribute some part to solving the problem of finding alternatives to fossil fuel. Even a 1% solution would be an important contribution, given the big problem of global warming.


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Answer by billrussell42
There are lots of companies that make small turbines.

here is a list

http://www.awea.org/smallwind/smsyslst.html

The problems these face are:

local zoning laws, which usually will not let you put one up.

Integration with utility power, which is only granted in some areas and with some companies.

Expense, you can pay quite a few thousand dollars, when you include the electronics to integrate the output with the AC mains.

Wind, most locations do not have a steady enough wind to justify the use of a wind turbine.

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