Filed under: Gadgets and Tech, Alternative Energy

Over the last few years, wind and solar proponents have been battling it out to take the top spot in the clean energy discussion. However, when it comes down making a purchase on a smaller scale, solar is king. Solar panels are smaller, more discreet and, most importantly, they're a proven commodity.

Still, that doesn't mean they're always the best option. According to Earth2Tech, the "small" wind turbine market is expected to double by 2013. By the way, I put "small" in quotes because were talking small in terms of output (100KW or less), not size. Look at the 100KW turbine in the picture and you'll see what I'm talking about.

A small wind system might not be as suitable as solar panels for your condo, but it might be better for you condo complex. Likewise, small wind's not ideal for your house in the burbs, but it might out-compete solar at your warehouse, or your farm, or whatever. Says David Link from Pike Research: "Small wind energy is less expensive than solar on a cost per watt basis which is driving more and more businesses and rural consumers to give it a second look."

So, when it comes to answering the question: Should I buy solar panels or a wind turbine for Christmas? You might get more bang for your buck if you go wind ... if you can go wind. There are other factors to consider, size being one of the biggest (pun unintended). You're gonna need a lot of wrapping paper.

There are a few drawbacks to small wind, of course. For example, what if the wind stops blowing while you're trying to watch the Super Bowl? To make small wind systems practical, they're usually used in concert with solar panels or tied into the energy grid. That way, you're not worried about losing power.

Another drawback, as I alluded to before, is finding the right application for a wind turbine. Sure, it's nice to think that your condo board might band together for the planet (and the financial gains) and buy a turbine, but it's not likely. Or, if you own a business, the financial breakdown might look great, but the huge turbine on your property may not.

The upside is, your renewable energy investment would be producing a greater return and in so doing, you're also putting more KW of clean energy back onto the grid -- a win-win. Combine that with the uncapped 30% federal tax credit for renewable energy, and all of the sudden smallish investors can reap larger returns using a small wind system.

While you're out shopping for small scale wind systems, the segment to stay away from is "micro wind." The general rule of thumb (which I just made up) is: If the turbine is smaller than a smart car, it probably won't ever offset the carbon emission used to build it.

Do 'Small' Wind Turbines Make Good Christmas Gifts? originally appeared on Green Daily on Fri, 11 Dec 2009 12:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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