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common
questions
Do wind generators kill birds?
Wind generators are safe for all forms of wildlife. They typically
tower only 35 to 100 feet, far below migratory patterns. According
to the American Wind Energy Association, U.S. house cats, who kill
roughly one billion birds each year, pose a much greater threat
to birds than small wind turbines.
I've heard these turbines are very noisy. Are they?
The sound from small wind generators typically blends in with common
outside sounds like those from cars, airplanes, barking dogs and
the wind blowing through the trees. The sound pressure level generated
by Skystream is in the range of 40-50 decibels, which is quieter
than background noise in a home or office.
Do wind turbines decrease property value in
a community?
There have been no reported cases of small-wind turbines reducing
property value anywhere in the country. Actually, wind turbines
have increased property values for many homeowners. One survey of
300 homeowners found that 50% of those surveyed would be willing
to pay more for a home equipped with solar and wind technology.
The chief engineer for a major wind turbine company, Skystream,
studied both physics and sculpture. Many people feel that the Skystream
is a work of art. It has no tail and unique curved blades. Skystream's
sleek aesthetic is a breakthrough in wind turbine design. Also,
the 35-ft. towers Skystream offers don't look much different than
a common light pole or radio tower.
How much land does one need to install a wind
turbine?
A wind turbine should be installed on any property with adequate
resources (10 mph average wind speed at minimum). The site should
be free from obstructions. The top of the tower should be a minimum
of 20 feet above any surrounding object within a 300-ft. radius.
Contact Eastern Plains Wind Energy for your property evaluation
and to have your specific questions answered.
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