Buying a manufactured windmill is likely to cost anything from 10,000 to 30,000 dollars or more, even for a domestic installation, so it is interesting to consider how to build a windmill for oneself. Actually, doing it yourself is very easy and can be done for less than 200 dollars. This kind of money will not get you a grand windmill, but the potential savings are really significant.
So, if you are thinking about making a windmill, what do you need to do first? These are some things to consider at the outset:
- Local average wind speed. Whatever others might tell you, windmills do not work very well in average winds under 10 mph. The US Government publishes detailed wind resource maps, which are worth consulting before fitting a windmill.
- Local building regulations and codes. Check these to see if you can build a windmill. For a small windmill you probably will be OK, but it’s best to make sure.
- Space available for the windmill. A small windmill will need about half an acre.
- Adjacent properties. Good idea to talk to neighbors at the planning stage, and overcome their objections to potential noise, interference with TV reception and similar concerns.
- Windmill size. You only want a windmill that will generate enough electricity for your needs. The utility company does not have to buy any surplus from you, only offset against any power you draw from the grid.
- Need for batteries. If you intend to live off-grid you will need to have batteries for electricity storage. These can cost you nothing if you know the secret. Or plan to use your windmill to partially offset your utility bills.
Getting the answers to these questions right is a little tricky, so it is really sensible to ask for expert advice before you start building. You will then be in a good position to select the right plans, which should include a complete materials list, sources of materials and clear, step-by-step instructions.
You need only a few components to build your own windmill. Typically these are:
- A propeller (actually 3 propeller blades fixed to a hub)
- A DC motor
- A tail fin
- A mounting shaft to which these are fitted
- A tower
- Probably an inverter (to convert DC to AC)
- Batteries
With some electrical cable and a collection of nuts and bolts, that’s all you need. You probably have most of the necessary parts in your shed but, even if you have to buy them, you will find it possible to get all required items for under 200 dollars. Even a diy novice can put together a small windmill and fit it in a weekend.
Details about how to build your own windmill are available from a number of sources, and you can get a set of good-quality plans for very little money. Practical-Solar has more information.
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