Wind Power
Why wind energy?
How does it work?
Why Second Source?
Which product is best?
What does it cost?
In terms of cost-efficiency and environmental benefits, wind power is quite comparable to solar power. Used most commonly to supplement or replace traditional electrical systems, wind power has undergone major technical advancements over recent years. Operational noise has been virtually eliminated while concerns over bird safety – due to migration and nesting – are now non-existent thanks to safer rotation and newer protection devices. (In fact, PETA has recently endorsed wind power as a result of these improvements.)
Wind turbines, which harness wind's kinetic energy for conversion to electricity, are available in a wider range of sizes than ever before – making wind a viable option for individual homeowners and commercial property owners alike. What's more, surplus wind energy can often be sold to traditional 'grid' providers, adding to its overall cost-effectiveness. Second Source Power offers installation and maintenance on many lines of wind systems, so ask one of our advisors which solution is best for you. In the meantime, here are some basic answers about the power of wind:
Why wind energy?
While wind power has been used for hundreds of years (i.e. windmills, sailing),
only recently have advancements been made for its conversion to self-renewing,
sustainable energy. Turbine development, technological progress and overall
operational efficiency have greatly improved our use of wind power. In fact,
over the past decade, wind has become the world's fastest growing source of
natural energy – in the process reducing pollution and reliance on harmful
and expensive fossil fuels.
How does it work?
Today's wind machines are divided into two types: vertical-axis units and the more
commonly used horizontal-axis turbines. Each essentially follows the same conversion
method, in which rotating blades collect the wind's kinetic energy. As wind
flows over the blades, causing their rotation, a connected drive shaft turns
as well. A gearbox transmission then multiplies the shaft's rotational velocity
to power a generator, thereby producing electricity.
Why Second Source?
As one of Canada's leading clean energy distributors, we're a proven and reliable
choice for getting customers off 'the grid'. Our partnerships with key manufacturers
around the world gives us access to the most innovative and efficient products
available. This, combined with our technical knowledge and hands-on experience,
allows us to perform expert installation and maintenance. As well, we provide 24-hour
telephone service and in-house financing – the only 'clean' company to
do so!
Which product is best?
Led by Bergey Windpower, the world's leading supplier of small wind turbines,
our line of wind products are ideal for homes, businesses and any 'off-grid'
applications. As primary power sources or to supplement the performance of existing
systems, our wind solutions provide optimal efficiency to generate their own
sustainable energy. For more information about Second Source wind solutions,
simply contact one of our advisors.
What does it cost?
Our coastal environment is known for its volatile weather and accompanying winds.
As a result, we have an ideal location for collecting wind power, and, subsequently,
a windy area generates less expensive electricity. After the assessment of wind
at a prospective site, the cost of wind energy is basically determined by the
initial expenses of turbine equipment/installation, the interest rate on investment,
and the quantity of produced energy. As a starting point, modern wind turbines
cost between $1500-$2500 per kilowatt, a number quite comparable to traditional
energy costs. A significant difference, especially over the long term, is that
clean wind power costs will only decrease. In addition, unused wind power can
be sold off at profit to traditional utility companies!
Related Links
Did you know?
Atlantic Canada has its strongest concentration of sun during the winter months of January and February.
The return on investment for a Thermomax system is generally between 5% and 14%.
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