FAQs about Wind Generation

Where can I find more information about wind energy?

The Iowa Energy Center may be a good place to begin:
Iowa Energy Center
2521 Elwood Drive, Suite 124
Ames, Iowa 50010-8229
Phone: (515) 294-8819
Fax: (515) 294-9912
e-mail: icc@energy.iastate.edu
Home page: www.energy.iastate.edu/about/index.htm

Is a wind turbine worthwhile to build?

Installing your own wind turbine is an individual decision for each member-consumer. Your cooperative’s role in this process is to help educate you regarding the cooperative’s expectations. The cooperative, together with the member-consumer, is also responsible for compiling a written agreement. First and foremost, we must protect the safety of our member-consumers and employees, maintain the integrity and reliability of the grid and ensure cost fairness.

We will help you obtain information you deem relevant to your decision-making process. However, the decision is one you must make on your own or with the assistance of consultants.

What does a wind turbine cost?

The price of a wind turbine varies, depending on factors such as size or capacity of the turbine, type of turbine, manufacturer, and supply and demand for such turbines.

Which vendors should I work with regarding my wind turbine?

The cooperative does not endorse one particular wind turbine vendor. There are several resources on the Internet which may give you additional background information.

What rebates or other incentives do entities such as the state or federal government have for wind generators?

Incentives can come in the form of tax credits, low interest loans or other delivery mechanisms. Your tax accountant or tax attorney can advise you about tax credits or other tax incentives relating to the installation of a wind turbine. The Iowa Energy Center may be another source of information.

What rate will the cooperative pay for kWhs generated from a wind turbine?

The cooperative will purchase excess power that the member-consumer generates over and above what is consumed. The cooperative will purchase excess power at rates comparable to what the cooperative’s power supplier would incur if comparable power were generated by the power supplier or purchased from another source.

Why do I have to carry $1 million or $2 million of liability insurance?

It is very common for businesses and individual homeowners to carry liability policies to insure against losses or claims. Customers should not view carrying liability insurance on a wind turbine any differently than the liability insurance on any other personal property. Insurance provides coverage for damages to others and their property. It is up to the owner of a wind generator to assume responsibility for insurance coverage.

Recommended process for member-consumers

1. Contact your cooperative to arrange a meeting.
2. Meet with your cooperative to verbally express intensions.
3. Work with your cooperative to develop a written agreement.
4. Proceed as outlined in the written agreement.

Contact your Western Iowa Touchstone Energy electric cooperative for more information on connecting a wind turbine.