Thanks for the question. As with most states Michigan has a net metering program. You can find out specific details about the program by following this link: http://bit.ly/mOrYPw

As for the best source for power, that will depend on your specific site. Typically solar is the more reliable source, plus solar panels have no moving parts and a longer warranty, so often they make the most sense. However, if you have the right site, a wind system can more than make up for these factors.

The starting point for determining if your site is right for a wind turbine is to first determine if you have sufficient open space. Consider existing obstacles and plan for future obstructions, including trees and buildings, which could block the wind. A rule of thumb for open space is you will want a 200′ circumference around the turbine and to be at least 50′ above any surrounding structures and trees (remember trees grow…). If you have sufficient open space then you need to determine if you have sufficient wind.

To find out if your site has enough wind (speed and consistency), start by visiting the US Department of Energy (DOE) wind resource map at http://www.windpoweringamerica.gov/wind_maps.asp. This will give you some general information. But since wind can vary significantly even on adjacent sites, you might want to check with your local fire department for more localalized wind data. They collect this information to help them in their fire fighting activities.

Of course the best way to get an accurate assessment of your site is to measure the wind at your site for a year using a recording anemometer, but you can definitely get a general idea using the other resources.

Once you know if you have enough wind, and before you make a purchase, you will also want to check for any zoning ordinances that might prohibit you from installing a wind turbine. If you pass all these tests then wind might be a good option for you. We can provide you with ballpark estimates for solar and wind along with a Return On Investment analysis to help you determine which renewable energy option is right for you.

Please let me know if I can help with anything else.

Alana

Wanted to be sure and stop by and check out your blog. I live in a condo and I’m on the bottom floor so using these types of things I don’t think would work for me. But I see a lot of products being sold online about how to build your own. Glad you set me straight on this so I can now tell people I know to just stay away from those. Of course, I would have no idea what’s involved and no way would I even want to know. I just hate people who rip others off, period!!!

Great site and packed full of great information. Will have to share your site with my brother. He’s been thinking about doing some of this to his home.

Adrienne

If it were that cheap to make panels yourself, then the new Chinese factories would be doing it the same way.

They aren’t spending billions on huge new solar manufacturing plants when there is a cheaper option for the price of scraps!