Consumology

Earthtronics, the alternative energy company has developed a small rooftop wind turbine. The 2kw Honeywell Wind Turbine can produce wind power from wind speeds of two miles per hour to 45 miles per hour. So far there are only very few turbines hitting the market that can produce energy from such a low wind speed. The wind turbine is 6 feet in diameter and weighs 95 pounds. It is meant to be directly mounted on a roof. The turbine generates power without the use of a heavy gearbox, therefore being lighter in weight and work at slower speeds. EarthTronics say it will be able to produce 2,000 kWH of electricity per year, practically 18% of an average households energy needs. The turbine will be available through ACE Hardware which will open up wind power generation to a whole new set of consumers. The Turbine will cost $4,500 plus about $1,500 fro installation. With the new incentives in the stimulus bill, consumers and businesses can claim a 30% investment tax credit and some states offer even more incentives. In the end, the turbine will pay for itself many times over. There are more announcements expected this year with companies opening up new amarkets for residential wind turbines to help consumers combat rising energy prices.