Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/89494
VINEYARD Wine turbines, such as this one at Anaba Wines in Sonoma, are helping wineries supply their own energy needs. Photo: Ted Rieger By Ted Rieger, senior feature editor ind power systems for wineries have not generated as much interest as solar photo- voltaic (PV) installations, but more U.S. win- eries and vineyards are harnessing this renewable energy source in locations with reliable wind flow, and where financial incentives assist with installa- tion costs. Most winery wind systems to date are sin- gle, small wind turbines that range in genera- tion capacity from 1.2 kilowatts (kW) up to 100 kW. The American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) defines "small wind turbines" as having rated capacities of 100 kW or less. According to AWEA, the United States leads the world in the production of small wind turbines that are used for homes, farms and small businesses. AT A GLANCE Wind power systems can be cost effective in locations with reliable wind and where financial incentives reduce installation costs. Wind turbine manufacturers and contractors can assist with site evaluation for feasibility, placement and sizing of wind turbines. Six Long Island, N.Y., wineries use onsite wind power to gener- ate electricity and more are expected to follow suit. Wind systems installed at U.S. wineries generate 15%-100% of the winery's annual electric needs 64 VINEYARD & WINERY MANAGEMENT NOV - DEC 2012 DESIRABLE SITES Desirable wind power sites are generally open areas with reliable wind flow and without airflow obstructions that can cause turbulence. This is usually a minimum of 30 feet above, and 300 feet away from, the nearest obstruction (buildings and trees). Local permitting and siting regulations can be issues based on the height and location of a tur- bine tower. Neighboring landowners and the pub- lic sometimes object to wind turbines as visual or sound intrusions. Wind proponents counter that small wind turbines built today operate at low sound levels, and turbine towers can sometimes replace unsightly sections of overhead power WWW.VWM-ONLINE.COM