Wind energy workshop for homeowners, small-business owners set for Thursday
Published: August 16, 2010
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ST. CROIX — Homeowners and small-business owners who want to learn more about using wind energy can sign up for a free workshop that the V.I. Energy Office is offering Thursday at Carambola Beach Resort.
This is the first time that the Small Wind Energy Workshop has been offered on St. Croix, although a similar workshop on St. Thomas in January 2008 drew more than 150 participants, said Don Buchanan, Energy Office spokesman.
“We know there is a lot of interest in this,” he said.
The workshop will focus on providing information to people who are interested in getting small wind turbines for homes or small businesses, not the larger utility-sized turbines, Buchanan said.
Topics to be covered in the workshop include a basic introduction to small wind power, how to select the optimal site for a wind turbine, utility interconnection and financial incentives, according to a statement the Energy Office released.
The Energy Office has a rebate program for small wind turbines, which offers a 50 percent rebate — up to a maximum of $13,300 — for the cost of the turbine for qualified buyers, Buchanan said. Those who invest in wind energy also may be eligible for income tax credits.
In 2008, the V.I. Energy Office provided rebates for nine turbines, Buchanan said. In 2009, it provided the assistance for eight turbines, and in 2010, more than 17 turbine-users have applied, Buchanan said.
Demonstration models will be set up at the workshop.
The workshop will contain technical information but is designed to equip the layman with basic information, Buchanan said.
“It’s definitely going to be a good foundation if you’re thinking about putting a turbine up,” Buchanan said. “We get a lot of questions about how much wind you need and where do you site it.”
The main presentation will be by Toygar Unai and Dean MacFarland of Syntonic Corporation in New Jersey. Other presenters include Energy Office Director Bevan Smith, Energy Office analyst Carl Joseph and Patricia Lord, the Energy Office grants program coordinator. The V.I. Department of Planning and Natural Resources also has been invited to make a presentation.
The workshop is scheduled to run from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Thursday at Carambola.
Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis, and the workshop can accommodate approximately 65 people.
On-site registration will begin at 8 a.m., although pre-registration is recommended. Lunch will be provided.
“People do need to register, because I think it’s going to fill up,” Buchanan said.
For additional information or to register, contact the Energy Office at 713-8436 on St. Croix or 714-8436 in St. Thomas-St. John, or go to the office’s website at www.vienergy.org.
