Wind-based hybrid power systems in rural Western New York

Abstract

The objective of this study is to explore the residential and agricultural use of small wind power systems in rural western New York, and to develop a sense of efficacy and efficiency of such systems. The study deals mainly with hybrid systems, that is, systems with wind as the primary source of power along with a variety of backup sources. The study also attempts to identify the technical and economic difficulties associated with small-scale applications of these systems. Numerous case studies revealed common misconceptions regarding wind turbines and the barriers these ideas create in the progress of a rural wind program. Lack of incentive programs makes it even more difficult for wind-based energy share to grow in Western New York.