1. What is the Skystream 3.7?
The Skystream 3.7 is a highly efficient grid-connected wind turbine.
2. What do all these confusing terms like power, energy and kilowatt mean?
There are a bunch of terms to be familiar with when shopping for a wind turbine. Most often people are confused by the different definitions of power and energy.
Power is the term most people are confronted with first, since most turbines have a power rating listed. Power is measured in kilowatts and is defined as the amount of electricity generated at one instance of time. For example, a 5 kilowatt rated turbine is capable of producing 5 kilowatts of electricity in “optimum” conditions. The trouble with using the energy rating as a measure of a turbine’s capabilities is that “optimum” conditions vary from every manufacturer. One manufacturer may reach 2 kilowatt in a 30mph wind while another may need a 50 mph wind to reach the same 2 kilowatt level! The Skystream 3.7 is rated at 2.6 kilowatts achieved at wind speed of around 30mph.
Energy production is a better indicator of a turbine’s abilities. Energy is defined as power produced over time. Most people are familiar with energy because it is measured in kilowatt hours and is how their monthly utility bill is based. The Skystream is one of the most efficient designs in the market. The Skystream 3.7 should produce 400 to 600 kilowatt hours of energy every month here in Nebraska. Please see the Energy Graph poster for the complete energy profile of the Skystream 3.7.
3. So Energy is the important measure? How much energy do I use a month?
The average American household uses 900-1000kwh a month.
4. But the Skystream 3.7 only produces 400-600kwh a month here in Nebraska is that enough?
One Skystream 3.7 should cut your electricity by about 50%. However, the beauty of the Skystream 3.7 system is that you can use multiple turbines! In most installations two highly efficient Skystream 3.7s cost less than a single, much larger competitor.
5. Ok, now that I know the terms, what makes the Skystream so cost effective?
The Skystream 3.7 is a state of the art all inclusive system. The majority of the turbines on the market create DC electricity and require a separate and very expensive “Inverter” to transform the electricity to AC. This is because the electrical grid of the United States is an AC system. The Skystream 3.7 has its inverter built in! Everything need to produce usable power is contained in the Skystream 3.7 itself; there is no expensive inverter that must be installed at the base of the tower. This makes connecting the Skystream to your home or farm much simpler and cost effective.
6. Whoa! Wait a minute! More terms? What is the difference between AC and DC electricity?
Very simply, DC is direct current while AC is alternating current. DC electricity travels in one direction while AC alternates directions back and forth. AC was adopted by United States because it allows long distance transmission of electricity. The one thing to remember is, if you wish to have your turbine connected to the grid and be paid for any electricity you produce and do not use, it must produce AC electricity within the utilities guidelines.
7. Paid?! Now you are talking my language.
Yes, Nebraska passed the Net-Metering bill in May of 2009. The law states you will be credited for any power you produce and do not use. The law went into effect on August31st, 2009.
8. How tall is the tower, and does it require guy wires?
The towers range from 33 to 80ft, and the best part is there are no guy wires. The monopole construction means the footprint of the Skystream 3.7 is very small compared to other turbines.
9. How will I know which tower is the right one, and where can I put the tower on my property for the best results?
When considering tower height, taller is always better. A perfect location for a Skystream 3.7 would place it 250ft from away and 20ft higher than any large structure on the property. The 45 and 60ft tower configurations are the most popular.
10. One last question! What is the first step in purchasing a Skystream 3.7?
The first step is the easiest! Just contact Jeff, John, or Jason at Husker Wind Power. Husker Wind Power will perform a site survey of your property and handle everything from then on out.
