Doing Your Research: Economics

Your power company bills you at a cost/kWh which can vary depending on your location, usage, and time of year. In the United States the average cost/kWh ranges from 7 cents in some parts of the midwest to 41 cents in Hawaii. In Europe and other places around the globe, the costs are considerably higher. In comparison, the Windspire® will produce electricity at rates as low as 4 cents/kWh, after rebates, over the lifespan of the unit in 12 mph average winds. Rebates and incentives vary by location. When your Windspire is generating power, the appliances in your home will pull power from it before using power from the grid. If you are generating more power than you are using, perhaps at night when only your fridge is running, your Windspire will turn your power meter backwards. In many states, Net Metering is available, in which your power company will credit you fully for the power you generate for the grid.

The main factors contributing to the economics are:

• Your Average Wind Speed
• Your Electricity Rates
• Your Electricity Rate Appreciation (over the lifetime of the Windspire)
• Local and Federal rebates, tax credits, and incentives
• (For Businesses) - Accelerated Depreciation and business incentives