When it comes to wind energy, most people think of collections of huge wind turbines that pump large amounts of electricity into the grid. However, with people more and more interested saving a buck – as well as the planet – there has been a growing interest in backyard-scale wind turbines. These smaller machines can allow a small house or cottage to go off the grid, or allow a farm to create some of its own power.

So how do you know if a home wind turbine is for you? Small scale wind turbines are for you if:

• You have at least 1/2 acre of property with good wind
• Your local zoning allows a wind turbine installation on your property
• Your neighbors are okay with you installing one
• You want clean renewable energy or some independence from the grid.

You could also try one of Mariah Power Windspires? These are vertical axis wind turbines, which are silent and don’t have rotating blades – a feature your neighbors may  appreciate. They stand at 30 feet tall and measure two feet wide with rotors that begin at a safe ten feet off the ground. A Mariah Power Windspire, which can be installed in a matter of hours, will set you back around $3,995 and are available in a variety of colors.