What are the economics of Small Wind?
Although small wind systems involve a significant initial investment, they can be competitive with conventional energy sources when you account for a lifetime of reduced or altogether avoided utility costs, especially considering escalating fuel costs. The cost of buying and installing a small wind energy system typically ranges from about $4,000-7,000 per kilowatt for a grid-connected installation, less than half the cost of a similar solar electric system. The length of the payback period (or, the time it takes to “break even”) depends on the system you choose, the wind resource at your site, your power provider’s electricity rates, and financing and incentives available. Small wind owners with strong average wind speeds who can take advantage of rebate programs can usually recoup their investments within fifteen years. Many states have rebate or tax credit programs in place to encourage small wind and other renewable energy applications. AWEA’s state-by-state1 pages provide informat
Although small wind systems involve a significant initial investment, they can be competitive with conventional energy sources when you account for a lifetime of reduced or altogether avoided utility costs, especially considering escalating fuel costs. The cost of buying and installing a small wind energy system typically ranges from about $4,000-7,000 per kilowatt for a grid-connected installation, less than half the cost of a similar solar electric system. The length of the payback period (or, the time it takes to “break even”) depends on the system you choose, the wind resource at your site, your power provider’s electricity rates, and financing and incentives available. Small wind owners with strong average wind speeds who can take advantage of rebate programs can usually recoup their investments within fifteen years. Many states have rebate or tax credit programs in place to encourage small wind and other renewable energy applications. AWEA’s state-by-state1 pages provide informat
