There was a time when the only wind turbines available were either the traditional windmill or that portable hand-held variety known as a pinwheel. But that was before the current emphasis on alternative power sources. Now, even a standard catalogue may provide several options.
EfstonScience offers the GUS™ Wind Turbine in four different sizes. These structures can be used in conjunction with other power supplies, but also operate independently. Generated electricity is stored in a battery pack. Solar cells can also be included in the assembly to allow optimal power production.
With all the recent attention to the problems associated with propellors – particularly for birds and bats – the GUS (Greenpower Utility System) is designed differently. It has a compact vertical shape, and the company claims that it can make up to 50% more electricity with this layout. In addition, it’s also touted as quieter and faster to respond to wind changes. A light wind of 4 mph (1.5 metres per second) is sufficient to generate electricity. And a gale up to 130 mph (60 m/s) can still be effective.
GUS units can be used for residential and commercial applications, in either urban or rural sites, and on mobile objects like boats and RVs. The turbines produce 3-phase AC current. A built-in WGU charging controller converts this to DC power. The whole structure is durable and low-maintenance. The same company also offers a hybrid structure with both solar panels and a wind turbine attached to a 24-foot pole. The assembly can generate up to 1000 Watts, which can then be used to power a security camera, safety lights, or other possibilities.
Similar vertical turbines – based on spiral vanes – are available through Windside, who manufacture various sizes and specifications. Other designs are also available.
Wind power offers the advantages of being sustainable and renewable. There is no pollution associated with it, and it can be very inexpensive depending on the source. The initial costs are substantial but can be offset with reliable electricity production. Intermittent wind can be a problem, although this is alleviated by storage batteries. Small-scale generation may be a very useful approach to supplement being on the grid, as well as powering more remote needs.
Photo credit ˜Tiki˜@Flickr.com
