5 small-wind technology players angling for mainstream attention
Summary: Home improvement stores including Lowe's, Home Depot, Ace Hardware and True Value are selling and installing certain small-wind turbines, which are building a following with some large rural properties, resorts and other remote sites.
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The Honeywell Windtronics WT6500 Wind Turbine can be purchased through hardware stores, including Ace and True Value locations. The first thing you will notice is that this technology doesn't look like your typical turbine. That is because it uses magnets and stators to capture wind power potential at the tip of the blade (where the speed is the highest). The 6500 model can produce up to 1500 kilowatt-hours per year, depending on height and location. The turbine itself measures 6 feet in diameter and weighs 241 pounds. It can start at speeds as low as 0.5 miles per hour. (Competitive designs traditionally require speeds of at least 7.5 miles per hour. The generator itself starts around $6,400 (not include the pole mount), which incluces the company's SmartBox control system for helping manage the energy product by the turbine.
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