On Tue, 22 Jul 2008 12:53:56 -0700 (PDT), Frank Reid
wrote:

On Jul 22, 8:28*am, wrote:
On Tue, 22 Jul 2008 05:12:03 -0700 (PDT), Frank Reid

wrote:
http://www.cnbc.com/id/25708335

Just glanced at it, but seems to give some basic straightforward info.

I've been looking at this:http://www.helixwind.com/en/for my own
home. *Unfortunately, a cost/benefit analysis with the cheap
electricity we have here kinda spoils the fun. *Of the home systems
I've seen, this one seems to have the most bang for the buck without
the need for a 60 foot mast. *Additionally, the noise factor is low.
Frank Reid

Have you looked at solar?

TC,
R

Yes, efficiencies aren't there yet especially with the fact that my
local company does not have a "buy back" program for dumping energy
into the grid. One of my big issues with both solar and wind is the
storage batteries. Too expensive and too much of a hassle to
maintain. Don't want bunches of lead acid in my house (with the
concomitment explosive issues), but its the only place to set them
over a Nebraska winter.

You might wish to look into AGM batteries. I'm sure a Google search
will produce more than you want or need to know, but they help solve the
two of the problems you mention - acid spills and freezing. As to
"expensive," well, that's a personal call, but they aren't what most
folks would call inexpensive.

Here's a link that might give some info:

http://www.windsun.com/Batteries/Battery_FAQ.htm

(Standard disclaimer - I have nothing whatsoever to do with this site or
those that own it, nor do I endorse them.)

TC,
R

Frank Reid