Are wind turbines the energy of the future? Due to the increasing popularity of residential wind turbines, the Fenton Planning Commission is creating an ordinance and guidelines for wind turbines. This was discussed by commissioners at their meeting last week.

Wind turbines are becoming a more popular form of energy source in the state of Michigan. And, many local residents are looking for new ways to reduce their carbon footprint.

Are wind turbines the energy of the future?

Due to the increasing popularity of residential wind turbines, the Fenton Planning Commission is creating an ordinance and guidelines for wind turbines. This was discussed by commissioners at their meeting last week.

According to Sherrin Hood, of LSL Planning, the city planners, they have not had anyone inquire about putting one up within the city, but they want to be proactive and have some guidelines in place when the time comes.

Hood reported that there is new technology for wind turbines for residential use. There are freestanding wind turbines, usually measuring in height from 35 to 60 feet, and may require special land use approval from the planning commission.

New, smaller turbines on the market are building-mounted. The apparatus measures 6 feet across, and can be mounted directly to the home. These turbines begin producing energy with wind speeds of 2 miles per hour.

"They (residents) could probably put one up now," said Hood. "The city wants to make sure that it is regulated."

LSL Planning works with many other cities in the state. Hood said that other communities have begun writing ordinances for these devices, and she wants to make sure that Fenton is "ahead of the trend."

Wixom, Imlay City and AuGres are among the other communities in the state who are also drafting ordinances for this new trend.

Wind turbines put off little or no pollution, reduce consumption of non-renewable energy, and can save money at the same time, according to the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA).

A residential wind turbine works in conjunction with local utility power. When wind speed is too low, the turbine will produce no power and the home will use electricity from the utility company. When wind speeds increase usually to above seven miles per hour the wind turbine produces energy. This will lower the amount of energy purchased from the utility company.

When wind speeds are strong enough and the turbine produces more energy than is needed to power the household, the excess is sold to the power company, per federal regulations.

According to the AWEA, wind turbines can lower electricity bills by 50 to 90 percent depending on the wind speeds in the area.

Energy production is responsible for 36 percent of carbon dioxide pollution and 64 percent of sulfur dioxide pollution, according to a report from the State.

Traverse City Lights and Power became the first municipal electric utility to install a wind turbine in 1996. There are also two wind turbines in Mackinaw City, just south of the bridge. When the turbine in Traverse City, located at the base of the Leelanau Peninsula, was erected, it was the largest in the country.

The mega structure is 160 feet tall, and at its highest output level, it produces 600 kilowatts of electricity, according to the Traverse City Light and Power website.

Wind energy is a reliable renewable resource and is an inflation-free source of energy. The cost does not change with the ups and downs of gas prices that we all experience on a regular basis.

Wind turbines can cost anywhere from $4,500 to $20,000 depending on the size and application. Installation can cost another $1,500. Maintenance is minimal as there are few moving parts.

The report also indicated the wind turbine can pay for itself within 15 years.

Web link: http://www.tctimes.com/articles/2009/10/11/news/do...