- Industrial (over 1Mw):
- The wind is free
- Wind energy is a relatively green source of energy
- Large wind turbines, when operating at the most efficient capacity can generate enough power for about 450 homes
- Small wind generators have a smaller impact on the visual environment and complement solar power installations on cloudy days or at night when it's dark
- Small Scale Wind Power:
- The wind is free
- Wind energy is a relatively green source of energy
- When the wind is blowing, small wind generators can help power a large portion of your electrical needs
- Small wind generators have a smaller impact on the visual environment and complement solar power installations on cloudy days or at night when it's dark
- Industrial (over 1Mw):
- Large wind turbines industrialize the natural landscape
- Wind is fickle and hard to predict - it often blows at the wrong time, and doesn't blow when you need it. It rarely blows at the optimum speed for the turbine meaning wind turbines rarely reach their maximum outputs - they typically operate at about 35% efficiency in Ontario
- Large scale wind turbines each typically employ 1,000 litres of oil to lubricate the massive blade hubs. Often seals break, causing environmental damage. Plus they consume oil which is a non-renewable product
- Wind turbines require regular maintenance
- Ice buildups on large wind turbines can cause dangerous "ice throws"
- Birds and bats get killed by wind turbines
- Small Scale Wind Power:
(Wind is fickle and hard to predict - however if you have solar as well, this isn't as big an issue) - You need to erect a tower for the wind generator and your municipality or your neighbours might object to this
- Wind turbines require regular maintenance
- Small turbines can be damaged in high winds
- Ice buildups on large wind turbines can cause dangerous "ice throws"
