Wind farms are a more and more common sight in windy regions of the United States. While many people like the idea of taking advantage of renewable, alternative energy sources such as wind, most consider wind farms impractical in terms of size and cost. Fortunately, it is now more practical than ever for homeowners and farmers to install and operate their own private wind turbine systems.
Today the Federal government offers serious incentives to offset the considerable capital costs of building wind turbine systems. Best of all, the large-scale wind farm is not the only way to cash in on these valuable incentives.
Small wind turbines in the 3 to 5 KW range are beoming more popular with homeowners, but price is still an objection. Today there are incentives specifically designed to encourage individuals to purchase and use small turbine systems. These incentives are designed to make cashing in on wind turbine savings available to any homeowner or farmer.
Government Incentive for Wind Turbine Installation.
Government incentives for personally owned, smaller wind turbine installation and use are covered under the Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit. The credit allows you to claim a credit on your income taxes of up to 30% of the cost of buying and installing a wind turbine system. The system can be installed on any property owned by the taxpayer in order to qualify.
Unlike some renewable energy incentives, there is no restriction requiring that the wind turbines be installed at the taxpayer’s primary residence to claim the credit. It can be installed on any property the taxpayer owns. This credit is defined a flat 30% of the cost of the turbine for all turbines installed between January 1, 2008 and December 31, 2016. You can find out all the details by examining the Tax and Health Care Relief Act of 2008.
Additional Wind Turbine Incentives
Currently, some states and even municipalities offer wind turbine incentives in addition to federal government incentive. Those considering the purchase of a wind turbine should look into their local laws regarding any possible extra tax breaks that could make doing so more affordable.
Whether it’s a large wind turbine farm or a small wind turbine system designed for private use, the biggest obstacle to installation is usually the capital costs. Wind turbine systems tend to be expensive relative to their power output initially. Although they allow homeowners to save on energy expenses, it can take years for wind turbine systems to pay for themselves through savings. Many individuals aren’t able or willing to make the long-term investment in savings wind turbines represent.
The hefty financial incentives offered by the government as well as state and local municipalities go a long way to defraying objectionable capital costs. Today private wind turbines are more affordable than ever for more people, and in the long run, they present a huge value in terms of energy production as well as environmental protection.
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