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How solar works
Why Alternative Energy Company

Houlihan's Restaurant

LEED certification enhanced at new restaurant location. Photovoltaic power generation by The Alternative Energy Company.


The Alternative Energy Co.
at the American Solar Energy Society Solar tour.

Wind

Wind is endless free energy, it just needs to be harnessed. The Alternative Energy Company offers many proven small wind solutions. You simply need a suitable site with enough wind to justify installation.

How can I tell if i have enough wind to warrant a windmill?

You need to have a constant wind speed of 10- 12 mph. This is just to begin producing power. To produce any kind of significant power on a sustained basis, you need to have an average wind speed of at least 25 mph. Few places in Missouri have this kind of wind. See the wind map as an example.

I have plenty of wind, what is the best solution for me?

Wind systems come in all shapes and sizes. Some are the traditional pole mounted propeller type. Others spin horizontally. Contact us and we will design a wind system to suit your needs.

I have been told that solar power is better than wind, is this true?

Because of the movement involved in a wind system, parts will wear over time and the maintenance will be greater than that required by a solar system. Additionally, harmonic vibration is common (depending on the rotational speed), so installing a wind generator away from a house, or houses, is recommended. Finally, the height of installation is critical. The ideal wind system will have 360 degree access to clear air. Trees, buildings, hills and other structures can all cause wind turbulence which will lessen the amount of wind actually reaching the generator’s blades. Solar isn't better just different. In most of Missouri renewable solar energy is more easily harnessed than a similar quantity of wind. Every case is different so please contact us, are happy to assess your situation.


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