Skystream 3.7

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Skystream work?

Skystream is a wind generator installed on top of a tower that converts the kinetic energy in the wind into electricity to be used in a home's electrical system.

In a typical residential application, a home is served simultaneously by the Skystream and a local utility. If the wind speeds are below "cut-in speed" 3.5 m/s there will be no output from the generator and all of the needed power is purchased from the utility. As wind speeds increase, the Skystream's output increases and the amount of power purchased from the utility is proportionately decreased. When the Skystream produces more power than the house needs, the meter spins backwards creating a credit that can be used later. All of this is done automatically without any interaction by the homeowner. Batteries are not required with Skystream.

Will Skystream save me money?

Skystream can help reduce your electric bills. The amount of money a Skystream saves you in the long run will depend upon its installed cost, the amount of electricity you use, cost of electricity, the average wind speed at your site, and other factors. Costs vary with local conditions and tower height. Feed in Tarrifs (FITs) and other programs may be available in your country. You should check with your local dealer to find about about specific incentives where you live. Find a dealer.

Will it help the environment if I install a Skystream at my home?

Because Skystream is a renewable energy source, produces no pollution, and uses wind power, you will be offsetting pollution that would have been generated by your utility company. Over its life, the Skystream can offset more than 6000 pounds of global warming pollutants (carbon dioxide and other gases that are associated with global warming) every year.

Does Skystream create anY sound or interfere with TV reception?

Skystream is extremely quiet and makes a small amount of operating sound similar to the level of a small office. It generally cannot be heard over typical background noise such as the sound of the wind. Skystream does not interfere with TV reception.

Is Skystream dangerous to birds?

While no formal studies have been done, anecdotal evidence indicates that birds occasionally collide with small wind generators as they do with any other type of structure. However, such events are very rare.

Should my neighbors be concerned about safety if I get a Skystream?

No. Skystream's design was done in collaboration with government agencies and testing organizations. As part of this project, extensive computer modeling and field testing was done to ensure a safe design. All of Skystream's testing was done to internationally accepted standards for small wind safety and reliability. Your neighbors who may have some concerns about safety may appreciate the following information:

Tower stability: Thousands of small wind generators are installed in the U.S. every year and their safety track record is excellent. Trees are much more likely to fall than a properly installed Skystream, but no setbacks or minimum property sizes are required for trees.

Safety of utility repair personnel during a power outage: Skystream will automatically shut down in the event of a power outage, and will not energize a dead power line. This is necessary to protect the utility line repair person.

Ice shed from rotor blades: Ice buildup makes Skystream blades less aerodynamic, so that they turn more slowly. Typically, ice will drop to the base of the generator tower and is not dangerous.

Children and towers: In terms of educating children about not climbing structures, a small wind generator should be treated no differently than other climbable structures such as water towers or amateur radio antennas.

Will my local government allow me to install a Skystream?

Each country's government allows different tower heights. You should check with your local dealer to find about about specific requirements where you live. Find a dealer.

Will I have to change any of the wiring in my house?

No. A Skystream can easily be installed at any existing home without the need to change any wiring or appliances. In most cases, the utility will install a second utility meter to measure how much surplus electricity it is receiving from the generator owner.

What about towers?

Towers as short as 11 m tall are available for Skystream. However in some circumstances, a taller tower may be necessary to raise the generator above turbulence created by obstacles on the ground and/or trees. Wind speed increases with height above ground, and increasing speed increases the amount of energy your generator will produce. Relatively small investments in increased tower height can yield high rates of return in energy production. A rule of thumb for proper and efficient operation of a Skystream suggests that the generator should be 6 m above the top of anything within about 76 m.

“It’s all the rage in our neighborhood. People are getting really excited...” ...More
-Rena Wilson Jones, Urbana, IL