
Small Scale Wind
Category: Energy Source
Small-scale wind, usually found on-site, utilizes turbines to capture the kinetic energy of wind on campus. That kinetic energy is converted into mechanical power that runs a generator, producing renewable energy. Turbine heights and rotor sizes are considerably smaller than utility-scale projects. Small wind turbines can generate between 20 Watts and 100 kilowatts.
Small-scale wind installation is best suited for locations with mostly flat terrain and few vertical obstacles. Your local zoning codes will need to allow the turbines. You should start your project by researching zoning and permitting laws for your area and establishing an energy budget.
Benefits of Small-Scale Wind
- Visible commitment to sustainability
- Can provide opportunities for student learning and engagement
Challenges
- Difficult to scale up to a meaningful energy contribution
- Campus buildings and trees cause turbulence making wind energy production less efficient
- Communities sometimes push back against wind installation

Impacts
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GHG Impact
Miniscule
More InfoLimited mitigation due to lack of scalability.
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Economic Impact
Small Net Cost
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Feasibility
Some Challenges
More InfoThe technology exists.
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Timeline
< 1 year
More InfoSystem design, integration and financing are often time-consuming but not unreasonable.
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Maintenance
Moderate
More InfoWind turbines have many moving parts which are subject to routine maintenance checks.
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Publicity
That's really cool
More InfoCampus visitors will see the visible commitment to campus sustainability.