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Wind energy proves unreliable
Credit: January 18, 2013 | www.wiscnews.com ~~
I read with interest the story recently on wind power in the area. I, being a wind turbine owner in southeast Minnesota have some of what I have learned to share.
In July and August wind generation is minimal because hot air is not dense, and it takes even more wind to turn the blades when it is hot. Those in the industry call this the summer doldrums.
A coal or nuclear power plant cannot scale down their production on a windy day. They are fined if they don’t produce enough power to meet the demand.
Therefore, most (if not all) wind power is wasted. Winona County helped get two big turbines going near where I live. The next day our dairy had stray voltage. The power companies are forced to buy power they can’t use – subsidized by the taxpayers – and pass the extra coasts on to their customers. The folks get charged twice for no return.
By the way, on those two big ones – I can hear them – like rolling thunder – more than a mile away in my tree stand. The blinking lights are an added annoyance.
Electricity costs in Denmark are more than 32 cents per kw. Ours are 10 cents per kw, and climbing fast.
Until we figure out how to store wind generated power or use it for something besides on the grid, we have the cart in front of the horse. Bottom line – the power plants seem to be running at the same capacity whether it is windy or not. Go figure. Fox News reported recently that 80 eagles per year are killed by wind turbines. BP was fined $1 million for any and all pelicans killed in the gulf oil spill; why does the wind industry get a bye?
My 35 kw vista turbine is for sale – lattice tower, 20’ blades – $120,000. Give me a call at (507) 689-2504.
Larry Greden,
Altura, Minn.
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