Wind Energy

Wind Energy is produced as electricity generated by a wind-turbine, typically mounted on a tall tower to reach the higher wind speeds present above trees and other landscape features. As with Photovoltaic electricity, it is generated as DC current that can be stored in batteries or converted to AC current. A wind energy system can be "off-grid" or "grid-tied" and can also be used in combination with a PV system.

The Mead facility has a "grid-tied" 10 kw Bergey XL wind turbine on a 120' free-standing tower, with an estimated annual energy output of 8,400 to 10,800 kwh/yr. It uses the utility grid as its "battery storage," purchasing energy when needed and selling electricity to the utility when the generated amount exceeds the building's needs.