If a landowner decides to pursue the purchase of a small wind system, there are several topics that need to be addressed. These topics include the selection of a turbine dealer, acquisition of permits, contact with neighbors, obtaining rights to utility grid interconnection, and a constructing a maintenance plan. These steps require time and significant involvement by the landowner. In order to assist in this process, we provide this ‘Next Step Guide’ so the landowner has sufficient knowledge to proceed from the decision to purchase a turbine through steps associated with preparing for, and installing, the small wind system.

Turbine Dealers

The first step in pursuing an appropriate turbine dealer is to research which dealers will be able to work with the landowner during the purchase and maintenance of the wind system. Many dealers are certified to install only certain brands of wind turbine, so one should check with the manufacturer to confirm a dealer’s certification. A manufacturing company may also recommend a specific dealer who is certified to conduct the turbine installation; a maintenance plan may be arranged through another provider.

Before selecting a dealer, it is important to ask for contact information of past clients and to seek recommendations. It may be a good idea to contact or visit some former clients to gain insight into the quality of work done by the dealer. It is advised to compare warranties that are guaranteed by the manufacturer and the dealer, as well as maintenance requirements for each system.

Virginia has a very limited number of dealers from which to choose. It is expected that, once a dealer is contacted, they will want to make their own assessment of the property and draw conclusions that are not entirely consistent with the analysis provided herein. This is a reasonable practice and often standard procedure for a dealer. It is important that the landowner educate not only him or herself through the use of this web site, but also seek out additional resources through organizations such as the American Wind Energy Association (www.awea.org) or VWEC’s main website (www.jmu.edu/vwec). A small wind turbine installation represents an investment that requires significant involvement on the owner’s behalf.