Wind Basics

Did You Know?
Did you know that the first wind turbine used for electrical production was built in 1888 by Charles F. Brush? By 1908 there were over 70 wind driven electric generators. Wind technology is not new, but recent technological advances have allowed wind generation to be recognized as a viable source of energy production. Did you know that electrical production from solar systems in Texas is only .1%; whereas, 10% of our energy in Texas comes from Wind Generation?

Wind Turbines
Wind turbines can be based upon either a vertical or horizontal axis. Most wind turbines consist of rotor blades that rotate around a hub horizontally. Wind turbines produce Direct Current (DC) and this energy is converted into Alternating Current (AC) by a product called an Inverter. Most wind turbines have three blades made of a fiber-reinforced polyester material referred to as (FRP). These blades are connected to a hub, which is connected to the generator. A tail is attached to this completed assembly, and the tail should be able to be adjusted for individual area winds. This entire assembly is also sometimes referred to as a turbine.

TX Wind and Solar - Wind Turbine

Wind Towers
The tower accomplishes the wind turbine’s need to be raised off the ground. Towers are specifically engineered for each type of turbine. Each turbine is rated for a different (KW) kilowatt, depending on the capacity of the generator. Every pole is individually engineered for each turbine that rests upon it. TX Wind and Solar has chosen Earth-Tech Energy Systems to provide wind and solar solutions for its customers. (Hyperlink) TX Wind and Solar is the DFW Metro-Plex Dealer for Earth-Tech. We understand local soil conditions and have each and every Wind Turbine engineered for your specific soil conditions, just has you would if you were building a home. In addition, TX Wind and Solar LLC understands the permitting and zoning regulations necessary for your installation.

There are two types of towers offered by Earth-Tech Energy Systems. These poles are normally either 40 feet or 60 feet in height. TXWS will help you in choosing which of the following Pole/Towers is best for you.

Guyed Designs – Tower is additionally secured and supported by guy wire cables on all four sides of the pole, approximately half way up the height of the tower.
Free Standing Designs – These towers are without guying features and are therefore larger in size and placed deeper in the ground.

Site Considerations

At TX Wind and Solar, LLC we conduct a free site evaluation to determine the feasibility of a Wind Turbine. Being in a good wind area is very important. The average wind speed, at our office, is 10.6 mph, but every area is unique and needs to be reviewed individually. (Hilly areas are always better than low-lying areas.) Depending on your area topography, the space that you have available for the turbine, access in installing the turbine, HOA restrictions and height perimeters; a Wind Turbine could be the right solution for you.

Power of Wind

Never underestimate the power of wind. Wind power increases exponentially relative to speed (V3). A Site with an annual wind speed of 12.6 mph has twice the available energy as a site with just 10 mph. Even more important are gusting winds, if your site experiences just a few days of high winds per month, you can dramatically reduce your electric bill.

Why Earth-Tech Wind Turbines?
As TX Wind and Solar LLC researched the wind turbine market, one manufacture stood way above the rest. Earth-Tech, with its high voltage, three phase induction turbines stands solidly above any of the other competitors. They offer 10-year warranties, while other manufactures only offer 5-year warranties. The power curves are superior to any other manufacture we researched. Safety features include mechanical braking systems and electronic disconnects, allowing homeowners to shutdown their wind turbine during high winds or servicing requirements. Earth-Tech turbines are also the most cost effective on the market. TX Wind and Solar is proud to offer turbines from and be an exclusive dealer for Earth-Tech Energy Systems, here in the DFW marketplace.