As renewable energy becomes more and more popular, many consumers are looking for affordable and reliable sources of renewable energy. For a significant portion of the U.S. population, small wind electric systems are a viable option.

But how exactly do small wind energy systems work... and what are their benefits?

This online engineering course presented by Allen Hughes, PE explore site selection, the basic components of a small wind electric system, costs analysis, and options for connecting to the utility grid. It also provides helpful information on methods for making a home more energy efficient, and is based on the publication, Small Wind Electric Systems, A U.S. Consumer’s Guide, US Department of Energy. The techniques and methodologies described in these course documents are applicable to most areas across the U.S.

Learning Objectives

• Multiple ways to make a home more energy efficient
• Factors that determine the viability of a small wind electric systems
• How to select a site for a small wind electric system
• Basic parts of a small wind electric system
• Factors affecting a small wind electric system’s capability of producing energy
• Options regarding the connection between the small wind electric system to the utility system