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Small Wind Energy

Small wind turbines are very different than large wind turbines. Large turbines, often grouped in wind farms, are widely used by utilities across Canada to provide grid electricity. Although small wind turbines may look like "miniature" versions of these large turbines, there are some important differences.

CanWEA's Small Wind Energy website provides the information and decision-making tools you need to learn about small wind energy systems (i.e. turbines with rated capacities under 300 kilowatts). You'll find answers to questions such as:

  • How is small wind different than large wind energy? Find out...
  • What are the benefits of small wind? Find out...
  • What would you use a small wind turbine for? Find out...
  • Is small wind suitable for your home, business, or community? Find out...


Small Wind Purchase Guide
This Guide is intended to answer common questions related to the purchase of small wind turbines. It follows a basic “check-list” approach from evaluating your wind resource and whether your site is suitable for a small wind turbine to choosing the right equipment obtaining the necessary permits and approvals, selecting an installation contractor and maintaining and operating your small wind turbine safely. This Guide is organized in three sections:

1. Before You Buy: Assessing Site-Specific Expectations
•. Wind resource and site topography
•. Property size, setbacks, and zoning restrictions
•. Other considerations (costs, interconnection, neighbours)

2. When You Buy: Purchase and Permitting
•. Sizing your turbine
•. What other equipment will you need?
•. Purchasing tips
•. Preparing documents needed for permitting

3. After You Buy: Installation, Operation, and Maintenance
•. Impact of micro-siting on performance expectations
•. Gettin help with installation
•. Notifications and compliance with regulations
•. Safe operation and maintenance considerations

You can also click here to view our new small wind purchasing tips.

 

 
     
 
 
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