frequently asked questions
How does a wind turbine work?
The wind turbine works the opposite of a fan. Instead of using electricity to make wind, like a fan, wind
turbines use wind to make electricity. The wind turns the blades, which spin a shaft, which connects to a
generator and makes electricity.
Does it cause harm to birds or bats?
While no such studies have been performed specifically for small wind turbines, anecdotal evidence indicates
that birds occasionally collide with small wind turbines as they do with any other type of structure. However,
such events are rare and very unlikely to have any impact on bird populations. Large, utility-scale wind
turbines account for less than 0.003% of all human-caused bird deaths, and small wind turbines have even
less of an impact. House cats in the U.S., by contrast, are estimated to kill roughly one billion birds each
year. Statistically, a single house cat, a window pane, or an automobile is a much greater threat to birds
than a wind turbine of any size.
How is Swift different from other turbines?
Swift is a rooftop mount wind turbine that is quiet. Traditional wind turbines generate some noise as the wind
travels the length of the blade. The outer ring on Swift acts as a diffuser as the wind travels down the
blades and is dispersed along the outer ring, therefore eliminating the noise and keeping the turbine quiet.
Cascade Engineering will be manufacturing all blades
worldwide and will do assembly for all turbines sold in the United States.
What is the average cost to install a Swift Wind Turbine?
Swift has an estimated installed cost of about $10,000 – $12,000. Depending on the installed price, cost of
electricity, average wind speed, and rebates available the Swift Wind Turbine can pay for itself in as little
as 3 years.
How much electricity can I expect from my Swift Wind Turbine?
SWIFT will generate about 2000 kWh per year in a good wind location. This is about 20% of an average home's electricity use per year. Multiple units can be used at one location to supplement commercial and industrial use.
What is the warranty?
Swift has a 5 year manufacturers warranty and is designed for a 20 year life.