- General Questions
- How does Skystream
work?
- Skystream is a wind generator installed on top of a tower that converts the kinetic
energy in the wind into electricity to be used in a home's electrical system.In a typical residential application, a home
is served simultaneously by the Skystream and a local utility. If the wind speeds are below "cut-in speed" (8 mph)
there will be no output from the generator and all of the needed power is purchased from the utility. As wind speeds increase,
the Skystream's output increases and the amount of power purchased from the utility is proportionately decreased. When
the Skystream produces more power than the house needs, the meter spins backwards creating a "credit" that can be
used later. All of this is done automatically without any interaction by the homeowner. Batteries are not required with Skystream.
- Will Skystream save me money?
- Depending on the wind speed average and the amount
of energy consumed every month, Skystream typically lowers a household electricity bill by 30% to 80%. It is not uncommon
for Skystream owners with total-electric homes to have monthly utility bills of only $8 to $15 for nine months of the year
(2005 data). The amount of money a Skystream saves you in the long run will depend upon its installed cost, the amount of
electricity you use, the average wind speed at your site, and other factors.
- Will my
utility company allow me to hook up a Skystream?
- Yes. Federal regulations
(specifically, the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978, or PURPA) require utilities to connect with and purchase
power from small wind energy systems. We can help you arrange the required utility company approvals.
- Will I have to change any of the wiring in my house?
- No. A Skystream can easily be installed at any existing home without the need to change any wiring or appliances.
In most cases, the utility will install a second utility meter to measure how much surplus electricity it is receiving from
the generator owner.
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