Wind Energy

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For questions about wind energy, contact DEP:

Phone: 311
Email: askdep@montgomerycountymd.gov

Using wind to do work or generate electricity is not a new idea, but wind is becoming a popular renewable resource for broad-scale electricity generation and on-site use.

Is a Wind Energy System Right for Me?

There are several siting issues to consider before purchasing a system.

Available wind resources. It is crucial to determine whether there is enough wind to sustain a small wind turbine. The U.S. Department of Energy suggests that consistent winds of 9.8 to 11.5 miles per hour are necessary to sustain a small turbine and generate enough electricity to make your system cost-effective. Visit the National Renewable Energy Laboratories' Web site to see the Wind Energy Atlas and assess the wind resources in your area. Also, keep in mind that other nearby structures can block or affect the wind reaching the system.
Zoning limitations. A good rule of thumb is that wind turbines should be sited on at least 1 acre of land, but this might be affected by local zoning limitations for structures over 35 feet high. Variances are often needed to site a tall structure, and they often depend on the surrounding area and setbacks. The table below shows the zoning requirements for Montgomery County. You can obtain more information through Montgomery County's Department of Permitting Services.

Lot Class Lot Size (min. sq ft) Max. Building Height (ft) Max. Building Height-
with Plan Approval (ft) Max. Accessory Structure Height (ft) Street Line Setback (ft) Rear Line Setback (ft) Side Line Setback (ft) National/ Historic Park Setback (ft)

R-60**
6,000
35
40
15
60
5
5

R-90**
9,000
35
40
15
60
5
5

Rural Zones
R-200*
20,000
50
50
50
65
7
12

RE-1*
40,000
50
50
50
80
10
15
200

RE-2C*
87,120
50
50
50
80
10
15
200

RE-2*
87,120
50
50
50
80
10
15
200

*If in a rural NC (Neighborhood Center) then the accessory strucutre height is max. 35 feet.
**Any accessory building or structure in these zones with a height greater than 15 feet, the side yard and rear yard minimum setback must be increased from the requirements at a ratio of 2 feet of additional setback for each foot of height in excess of 15 feet.

Community-specific limitations. Small wind systems are not appropriate for dense urban areas. It's also a good idea to communicate with the surrounding community to educate them on the project and how it might affect them and their property before committing to an installation. Sample letters are available on the American Wind Energy Association's (AWEA) Web site.
How much electricity can be generated. The amount of electricity generated per month depends on the system size and the consistency and velocity of the wind. The U.S. Department of Energy's Small Wind Electric Systems Guide suggests that a 1.5-kilowatt system (costing about $7,000) can generate 300 kilowatt-hours of electricity a month in an area with a 14 mph average annual wind speed. A larger system can generate more electricity.
The estimated payback. The cost of a small wind energy system (3 to 10 kilowatts) with an 80-foot tower and necessary electronics ranges from $15,000 to $50,000. Like solar, the payback period for this investment varies and is also dependent on available incentives. A list of available incentives is provided below.

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Selecting and Finding a Service and Product Provider

Installing a wind turbine is different than installing a solar or geothermal system. Rather than contractor installations, wind turbine manufacturers often offer installation services as part of the package of purchasing a wind turbine system. A list of wind turbine manufacturers is available through the American Wind Energy Association. The Maryland Energy Administration also hosts a list of installers in Maryland.

When shopping for an installer always check for relevant licenses, request references and a list of itemized costs, and get multiple quotes.

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Financial Options and Incentives

DEPs Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Incentives

Additional Resources

The following pages provide additional information about wind energy systems:

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Wind Energy

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Is a Wind Energy System Right for Me?

Selecting and Finding a Service and Product Provider

Financial Options and Incentives

Additional Resources