Step 2. Is a micro wind project right for me?

Have you considered energy saving alternatives?

For residential customers, contact MassSAVE for more information on how to implement energy efficiency measures. For all other customers, contact your utility directly for energy efficiency tips. See below for utility links:

• Cape Light Compact
  
• NSTAR
• National Grid
• Western Massachusetts Electric
• Unitil

Through the Small Renewables Initiative, the Trust has made about one hundred awards to micro wind projects, of which more than forty are now installed and operating. The Small Wind Progress Briefing from November 2008 outlines the early production results for twenty-one of these systems.

On average, these systems are producing ~30% of what was estimated. Because of this system underperformance and the associated learning, the Trust recommends that you review the documents above and consider the following items before pursuing a micro wind project at your home or building.

Issues to consider are:

1. What is the wind resource at your location?
   To view the wind resource in your community, please visit the Community Wind Maps.
2. Do you have the footprint to construct a micro wind turbine?
3. Are you OK with the cost and potential payback?

The following resources will help you to better understand the characteristics of good sites for wind: