05-04-2011, 12:49 PM
cbelt3 wrote:
[quote=modelamac]
A lot more like this could be done.
...
Uhm... read the article to get an idea of the size and weights and dimensions involved in the equipment. The stresses involved in wind generating equipment is very different from the stresses involved in antenna and so forth. I've seen weldments for wind generator towers. They look a lot like the weldments you see in a battleship turret.
Wind generator towers really are single purpose. You cannot 'hang' things off them without some serious engineering changes.
You don't need to install the typical massive unit everywhere. Install what works there.
I've seen several small wind turbines at several spots at Detroit Metro Airport, near entrances. You do not have to mount these units all that high off the ground to get effective output. Location means everything.
The biggest barrier is the initial outlay and payback period. Do you put your $ into renewable energy or an interest-bearing vehicle? Today, with current interest rates and energy costs, renewable energy looks pretty good, especially with the falling US$.