Team Member(s): Jushua Rodgers, and Nathan Barrow
Semester: Spring 2010
End-Product Description
As we use more and more of the Earth's resources, the human race pays the price. Fossil fuels that are processed and/or consumed produce deadly toxins into the air which damage the Earth's atmosphere. As the atmosphere deteriorates all life on earth suffers. Global warming, toxic rains, and an increase in harsh weather conditions are ways in which the Earth changes due to the condition of the atmosphere. There is a sharp rise in a need for people to think green. Wind, solar, and hydrogen are all types of green energy. As of right now, wind energy is most prominent and can produce ample power needed for direct consumption. Unfortunately, wind power is unreliable and due to power surging, it is not recommended to connect wind turbines to a power grid without the proper precautions [3]. There are many different types of windmills and wind-generators on the market. Squirrel cage, vertical axis and the axial flux are the most common. Many of these systems are expensive and are not suitable for all climates, due to one major restriction: wind. With ample wind, one may purchase a system that would provide enough power for residential consumption and could sell unused energy back to the power company. Most of these systems have incorporated solar and battery backup systems. They add strength and reliability for the home "grid" and decrease power bills. Systems that connect to the power grid can be very expensive due to very strict guidelines that must be met.
Figure: 1 
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