http://www.evolvegreen.ca/WindSolarFAQ.html

Q5. Will a small wind system save me money?



A wind turbine typically lowers a household electricity bill by 50% to 90%. It is not uncommon for wind turbine owners with total-electric homes to have monthly utility bills of only $8 to $15 for nine months of the year. Depending on the turbine size and the installation site, a turbine could supply more than 100% of a home’s energy needs, sometimes resulting in a “negative” electric utility bill.

The amount of money a small wind turbine saves you in the long run will depend upon its cost, the amount of electricity you use, the average wind speed at your site, and other factors.

Since energy conservation is usually less expensive than energy production, making your house or farm more energy-efficient first will likely reduce the amount of investment in a wind system to meet your needs. Most wind system purchasers have done all the reasonable efficiency measures first.



Q6. How do wind turbines perform as an investment?



The wind system will usually recoup its investment through utility savings within six to 15 years and after that the electricity it produces will be virtually free. Smaller wind systems can pay for themselves in as little as 3-8 years.

Over the long term, a wind turbine is a good investment because a well-sited wind system increases property value, similar to any other home improvement. Many people buy wind systems in preparation for their retirement because they don't want to be subject to unpredictable increases in utility rates.