Find Wind Energy Installers
Small wind turbines can supplement solar panels for homes and farms with sufficient wind resources, particularly in rural and agricultural areas. Our directory helps you connect with wind energy professionals who can assess your site’s wind potential and design an appropriate small wind system.
Is Residential Wind Right for You?
Small wind turbines (1 to 20 kW) work best on properties with average wind speeds of 10 mph or higher, at least 1 acre of open land with no major obstructions, and local zoning that permits turbine towers (typically 60 to 120 feet tall). Wind energy can be an excellent complement to solar — wind often blows strongest at night and during winter months when solar production is lowest, creating a more consistent year-round energy supply.
However, for most suburban and urban homeowners, solar panels are a more practical and cost-effective renewable energy option due to lower installation costs, simpler permitting, and no noise or visual impact concerns.
Small Wind Costs
A residential wind turbine costs $3,000 to $8,000 per kW of capacity installed, making a 5 kW system $15,000 to $40,000. The 30% federal ITC applies to small wind, and some states offer additional incentives. Payback periods range from 6 to 15 years depending on your wind resource and electricity rates.
Before investing, get a professional wind resource assessment. Your state energy office may offer free wind maps and assessment tools.