wind turbine sailboat

Sailboat Wind Generators: The Ultimate Guide 2024

Sailboat wind generators are a way to capture the energy of the wind and use it to charge your batteries and power electronics aboard your vessel.

A large part of the appeal of living on a sailboat, for many people, is being more or less self-sufficient – using the wind for propulsion, and the elements to generate all the power you need.

Solar panels are a wonderful technology, literally magic, but the sun doesn’t shine every day. In fact, of the most popular cruising grounds in the world aren’t even that sunny. It rains three to four days a week in Barbados or Antigua, for example (don’t even get us started on the English Channel).

And what about night sailing – keeping critical loads like autopilots and instruments online after the sun goes down?

A marine wind generator fills in those vital gaps in the energy picture, and eliminates the need to generate or run the engines to keep your electronics online.

In this expert guide we take a deep dive into sailboat wind generators, covering everything you need to know – from how they work through to the very latest technological advances.

With thousands and thousands of miles under the keel, we have lived off-grid using technologies just like this for almost a decade now. We’ve rewired more boats than anyone should ever have to. We’re marine electronics nerds, basically, and specifically very passionate about renewables like wind and solar.

That’s why we couldn’t wait to write about this topic, and why you’ve got a good 4000 words on it! Sorry about that! But feel free to skip and just read the information you’re interested in, we don’t blame you!

So, let’s take a close look at sailboat wind generators, how they work, what makes a good one, the best sailboat wind generators that we think deserve a place on your next nautical expedition.

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Table of Contents

The best sailboat wind generators – best budget choice, the best sailboat wind generators – best overall, what is a sailboat wind generator, why install a wind generator on a sailboat, wind generators vs solar power.

• What is a dump load on a marine wind generator ?
• Marine wind generators vs hydro generators

Our top budget choice: Nature Power 500

If you are in the US, the choice for the best budget marine wind generator is easy – it’s this guy , the Nature Power 500, which West Marine have sold for donkey’s years with eternally solid reviews.

It’s a 500-watt turbine that is natively compatible with both 12V and 24VDC systems. It’s made from marine-grade aluminium that’s also coated in a thick, durable coating to help it withstand years at sea.

This wind generator is rated for winds up to 110mph – well into hurricane territory – and it comes as a complete kit including a charge controller using the latest MPPT technology. The controller even has an electronic brake, even though it’s a manual one.

Honestly, this is just a lot of value for the ~$700 they’re asking, and very easy to recommend for the best budget sailboat wind generator.

We don’t massively recommend most of the budget options on Amazon for extended cruising – they’re just not built for the task. But if it’s all your budget will stretch to, something like a Pikasola 400 would be the best bet for a sailboat wind generator under $500.

Readers in the UK or Europe could look at something like a Rutl and 914i . You’ll pay a little more, around £850, but a Rutland is a proper piece of kit – they’re been manufacturing marine wind generators since the 1970’s, long before solar panels were even seen on pleasure yachts.

The 914i will produce about 260 watts in 30 knots of breeze, or 20+ amps into a 12-volt battery. In a hurricane it’ll make over 400 watts.

This is a genuine marine wind turbine built from quality parts and specifically designed for the aggressive saltwater environment. It comes with very few compromises, from the bundled MPPT tracker to its extremely quiet operation.

The charge controller supports a small solar panel as well, which is sort of nice – but we’d highly recommend using a top-quality, stand-alone MPPT charge controller for any solar panels if you can possibly afford it.   

If you are in Europe, or can import, we think the Silentwind Pro is probably the best sailboat wind generator you can buy right now. This is with the caveat that while we’ve seen these installed on lots of different yachts, talked to multiple long-term owners, and even handled one out of the box, we’ve never actually owned one.

That’s because they start at about €2,100, which is a considerable sum for a 420w wind generator. But what you do get is an incredibly refined package – one that picks up and starts generating with as little as four knots of breeze, and remains whisper-quiet right up into the high RPMs.

The Silentwind Pro uses hand-laminated carbon blades that are rated to withstand hurricane-speed winds, but that are also highly efficient across the curve. This is definitely one of the most engineered solutions on the market today.

The polished package is rounded out by features like an automatic electronic brake that kicks in if the wind exceeds a certain speed. Cheaper options may have an electronic brake but it generally has to be tripped manually by the crew.

Models without an electronic brake of any kind are frankly dangerous, because you have to lasso them to stop them – which is how the gentleman broke his arm, and wind generator, in the earlier example.

Other than Silent Wind, there are a few slightly cheaper options that are still very good. For readers in the US, one option made locally is the Air Silent X made by Primus Wind Power. We don’t have as much experience with these, but we have met a couple of happy owners and have heard similar things to Silentwind.

Primus claim they have the bestselling wind turbines anywhere in the world; we’re not sure about that given that Marlec / Rutland have been around nearly two decades longer, but either way their site states they’ve sold more than 150,000 wind generators since ’95, into over a hundred countries.

Primus make six different models at different price points that are all potentially worthy of consideration, but the Air X Silent or Air Breeze are both solid choices.

Rutland wind generators also remain easy to recommend across the board, particularly to readers in the UK and Europe, and a premium option would be something like a Rutland 1200 .

At around £1,500, or $1900, the Rutland 1200 can produce up to 480W flat out, and will hit 300W in only 20 knots or so of breeze. It’s a proper marinized unit built to withstand the rigours of life at sea, and that should provide years of low-maintenance service.

A sailboat wind generator, also known as a marine wind turbine or wind charger, is a device for capturing wind energy and turning it into electricity.

Sailboat wind generators typically have 3 or more long, aerodynamic rotor blades attached to a central hub. The blades translate wind energy into rotational force and spin the hub, sometimes at near-supersonic speeds .

The hub is attached to an electrical generator – a lot like the alternator on an engine – that generates electricity as it spins.

A wind turbine is an electrical fan operating in reverse. The fan takes electricity and uses it to spin a motor, attached to a hub and some blades, creating wind.

A wind turbine takes wind energy and uses it to spin a hub attached to generator, creating electricity.

You can actually just spin any DC motor to generate electricity , but it helps a lot if you pick one that generates the flavour of electricity you’re after.

Brushed motors are appropriate for generating DC, whereas a brushless motor is better suited to AC voltage applications.

A handful of marine wind turbines, mostly older ones, do use a brushed motor set up to produce a voltage that can directly charge a 12 volt or 24-volt battery.

Brushed motors are called that because they literally have a core of metal brushes that drags along inside outer, magnetic stator. Those brushes wear out over time and need to be replaced. They’re in something like a starter motor that works intermittently, but putting them in wind generators was always a bad idea.

They’re also noisy – which is a major consideration in a device that is going to run overnight, above your head, while you sleep, every night.

Brushless motors have so many advantages over brushed, from their efficiency to their lifespan to their reduced mechanical noise. As such, most wind generators produce AC electricity and then rectify it to DC at the regulator in order to charge the battery bank.

This means you will normally have three wires leading from the wind generator on your sailboat to the charge controller. It also means you definitely don’t want to connect those wires, carrying AC electric, to your DC battery bank, without passing them through the charge controller first.

Wind generators offer a lot of advantages – notably the ability to work day and night, and in both sunny and stormy weather.

Solar panels are great, but they only work during the day – and on sunny days, at that. They’re also affected a lot by the seasons, because in winter there are both less hours of daylight, and the sun is lower in the sky, its rays have to travel further and they strike the panel at an oblique angle. And, it’s cloudy or rainy nearly every day.

Regardless of season, as we’ve explored earlier in this guide, some of the most popular sailing destinations don’t actually have reliable sunshine – but all of them have reliable wind.

Not so with sailboat wind turbines, which work just as well on sunny days as stormy. They often generate even more power in winter, on days when solar might be producing at 10% or less.

This effect makes wind generators a big enabling technology for grey-weather sailing, from extending your sailing on into the “shoulder season” and benefitting from empty bays and anchorages, to exploring unconventional cruising grounds such as the Scandinavian fjords.

Besides stormy and overcast days, wind generators will keep on producing at night. This is particularly helpful when night sailing with the radar, AIS and full nav suite running, maybe plus an autopilot, and then all your domestic loads like your fridge and freezer. Even if you’re just at anchor, it’s nice to wake up with topped-off batteries every morning.

This doesn’t apply if you have a modern boat with ample battery storage, but when we were just getting started in sailing, we would frequently have half-flat batteries by morning.

Not only does this shorten the life of the bank, it occasionally even meant we struggled to pick up the hook in the morning – which is a bit of a safety hazard. Again, this is mitigated by wind.

None of this is to say that you should ditch solar power for wind. Solar power has many wonderful properties, explored below, and the two technologies actually complement each other very well. If you have a large enough vessel, we fully recommend you try to integrate both into your power plan.

Wind and solar are both very useful technologies to the cruising sailor, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Their pros and cons in fact offset each other and synergise quite nicely, compensating for each other’s weaknesses.

As such, we’d argue it’s less about deciding which is better, and more about figuring out whether you can incorporate both into your power plan somehow.

Nonetheless, let’s have a look at how solar power and wind generators compare and contrast, and some of the pros and cons of each technology.

Advantages of solar power vs wind power

Solar power’s major advantage over wind is that it’s “solid state”. This means it has no moving parts to wear out, and requires almost no maintenance.

In fact, solar panels will generally sit and faithfully do their thing decade after decade with almost zero human interaction. A common standard nowadays is for panels to retain 90% of their producing power after 20 years .  

There’s a 10kW solar array in Switzerland that’s been feeding directly into the grid since 1982; it’s over 40 years old and going strong.

Solar panels benefit from wiping down once or twice a year, but other than that, they’re a totally set-and-forget technology.

Many sailing destinations have ample sunshine, with long hours of direct sun throughout the sailing season.

Solar is also cheap and plentiful nowadays, and panels come in all shapes and sizes that can fit almost anywhere on a yacht – including a handful of solar panels you can walk on, although those are not cheap.

Overall, though, solar is much cheaper than wind watt-for-watt. You might pay $0.50 per watt for a good rigid polycrystalline solar panel and charge controller. A wind generator may well run to $2000 for 400w – that’s $5 per watt, up to ten times more expensive. And the wind generator has moving parts that can require replacement.

Another often overlooked advantage of solar panels is that their solid-state nature makes them very safe – there are no moving parts to catch a finger in, or spinning blades that could strike a member of the crew. They just sit and silently do their thing, year after year.

Disadvantages of solar power vs wind power

Solar only works when the sun shines. The sun, as we’ve pointed out earlier, doesn’t always shine. You might be surprised by how cloudy places like the Caribbean can be – some islands have rain up to 50% of the time.

Some popular sailing destinations, like the English Channel, average about two hours of sunshine per day, with rain or overcast skies on 75% of days annually ( no, seriously ).

There’s always night sailing, as well. If you’re night-sailing, you may well have tools like radar and AIS running for safety, plus other loads like an autopilot and anything like fridges and freezers running below.

If you only have solar power, and no wind, you may have to run the engine to make it through the night – or invest in a large battery bank that can keep up until morning.

Marine wind generators are an excellent way to bridge the gap. It can be windy at any time of the day or night, and very often the cloudy or stormy days are the windiest. It’s only sunny during the day, and only some days, so this is a major disadvantage of solar power when compared to wind.

Another disadvantage of solar panels is that they lose power quite dramatically when shaded, and sailboats unfortunately have a lot of tall, shade-casting objects. These include the mast, the boom, the sails and anything like radar or Starlink dishes .

Somewhat paradoxically, solar panels also lose power as they get hot in the sun, meaning the normal, everyday conditions in many exotic destinations can actually reduce their efficiency by double-digit percentages. They are happiest somewhere cold with lots of sun, like on top of a mountain – not in the tropics.

Advantages of wind power over solar power

The wind doesn’t rise and set like the sun – it can blow around the clock. Okay, technically, the sun rising and setting down does change the temperature and create all the wind on earth.

But the wind often continues after the sun goes down. In fact, when you’re on a boat, on the water next to land, the wind usually just reverses at night .  

It’s often windy on the water on sunny days because all wind is caused by pressure flowing from high to low, and the main source of those differing areas of pressure is heat from the sun – particularly, say, where the adjacent land and water heat up at different rates.

That’s how wind is made on sunny days. But it’s often windy on non-sunny days, too, because it’s just about air rushing between those areas of high and low pressure, hot and cold air. As such, cold fronts can bring wind too.

This makes wind somewhat more of an always-on technology than solar – especially in the places that sailing boats are found. There is usually wind offshore, and often in the anchorages too as it rolls off the hills . In some parts of the world, such as those affected by the Greek Meltemi , it blows straight 30’s weeks on end.

Overall, sailing boats are just usually found in places with abundant wind energy, so there’s a lot of synergy between sailing boats and wind generators. And we’ve pointed out, many exotic sailing destinations in the world have more wind than sun, and that’s before we get started on sailing somewhere like Scandinavia.

A wind generator has a small footprint compared to a solar panel, although it does need a large exclusion zone around it for safety. Wind generators are sometimes mounted up the mast, but we don’t generally advise putting a large, pendulum-like weight at the end of a 50-foot-long lever arm if you can avoid it as it may negatively impact the motion of your boat.

Disadvantages of wind vs solar power

Wind generators do have some drawbacks compared to solar. The obvious one is that they have moving parts, which both present a hazard to the crew and require replacement or regular maintenance.  

The worst-case scenario is a crewmember being struck by the blades. The tips of something like a Silentwind Pro can spin nearly a hundred times a second and get close to breaking the sound barrier.

Here’s an example of where someone accidentally clipped their arm on a sailboat wind generator and it both shattered their arm and sent the turbine blade flying across the cockpit. The author notes that they had also seen the wind generator explode a seagull prior to this incident.

Much of this is mitigated by putting the wind generator outboard and features like electronic brakes, so you don’t need to stop it with your right ulna as the gentleman above did. The upshot is that wind turbines are dangerous in a way that solar panels are not.

The constant motion also generates wear and tear. It used to be worse, back when we used brushed DC motors – but the bearings in brushless motors do eventually wear out too, and they benefit from regular greasing a bit like your winches. It’s just an extra thing to maintain.

It can be too windy for wind generators, too. It can’t be too sunny for solar panels (although it can be too hot). Many modern, top-end marine wind turbines have that electronic brake built in to compensate for this, but you still have to shut down and stop producing when it blows a gale.

Another disadvantage of wind is that it’s really expensive compared to solar on a watt-for-watt basis. Good polycrystalline panels paired with a brand-name MPPT controller might come to $0.50 a watt at the time of writing, while a leading wind generator works out at $5.00 per watt.

This is compounded by the fact that wind does often produce on quite a concave power curve. That is to say, you need a fair amount of wind to produce anything at all, and probably need gusts into the 30-knot range to start to see your rated wattage.

Another often-overlooked point is that if you’re sailing downwind, you are robbing the wind generator of air. If you are sailing downwind in 15kts of breeze, making 7kts, the apparent wind speed at the generator is only 8kts – which might not even be enough to start generating.

Finally, wind generators can be noisy. Again, brushless motors have helped with this significantly, but there is still the rushing of the air over the blades, and any eccentricity in the bearings or blades will send maddening, resonant tremors down the pole and directly into your sleeping quarters at all hours of the night.

The latest wind generators make use of things like acoustic decoupling, a fancy term for having a rubber dampener between the end of the pole and the deck, to mitigate this.

What is a dump load on a wind generator?

A dump load , also called a dummy load or diversion load, is something used in wind power to get rid of excess power when the batteries are fully charged.

One of the small downsides of a power source that runs night and day is the potential to oversupply electricity and overcharge the battery bank.

As an electrical generator supplies more and more power, it gets stiffer and stiffer to turn. The power has to come from somewhere, and it’s felt as resistance – producing a braking effect.

If you suddenly take that braking effect away by disconnecting the battery bank, the wind turbine will start spinning at very high speed, causing anything from rapid and excessive wear on the bearings through to a catastrophic failure where the blades shear off at supersonic speeds.

In order to prevent this from happening, the charge controller has the option to switch between charging the battery and supplying power to a dump load .

The dump load can simply be a big resistor. It will heat up as the wind generator spins on, and safely apply a brake to it by literally just wasting power as heat.

You can probably guess where this is going. Another option is to use an element specifically designed to heat up, and use it to heat water. You can easily buy DC immersion water heater elements for $20-30 , connect them in the place of the dump resistor and use them to make hot water with the excess power instead.   

We’ve often daydreamed about using it to make ice or run a teeny tiny aircon unit as well.

Some of the top-end sailboat wind generators will automatically apply an electronic brake and safely stop the blades when the bank is full, and it varies from model to model whether they simply have that as an option, or it replaces the dump load entirely (including useful ones, like making hot water).  

Do not be tempted to use the dump load to charge a second battery, such as a starter battery, when the first bank is full. If you do, you will encounter problems once the second battery is full and the turbine starts to freewheel.

If you do want to charge several banks at once, or one after the other, you want a split charger connected to the main charging output instead, and a highly resistive load that can run indefinitely on the dump load output.

Marine wind generators vs hydro generators  

Hydro generators are another way of capturing the energy of the wind and turning it into electricity. But instead of capturing the flow of air, a hydro generator is dragged through the water behind a boat under sail.  

The elephant in the room here is that a hydro generator is only going to work when the boat is in motion. A wind generator, on the other hand, keeps on producing while you swing around at anchor.

The average cruiser spends around 90% of their time either at anchor, on a mooring ball, on town quays, or in marinas. This is because the everyday business of cruising is not so much about sailing as it is about fixing the boat, going ashore for provisions or parts, waiting for a weather window, or exploring the place you sailed to, socialising with the other yachties you just met, barbecuing on the deck, and so forth.

The wind generator works through all of that, night and day; the hydro generator only a fraction.

So why does anyone use hydro generators at all, then?

The answer lies in the fact that a traditional trade-wind circumnavigation, by far the most popular way to “sail around the world”, is almost all downwind .

As a result, you are often “running away” from the wind when you sail around the world, which has the effect of subtracting your speed from the true wind speed and deducting that much power from your wind generator.

Thus, if you want to sail around the world on say, a performance catamaran, it might make sense to drag a generator behind the boat instead of in the air. That way, its performance is tied to your boat’s speed through the water rather than the apparent wind.

An adjacent use-case to this is people who “sail around the world” in the sense of not stopping, or stopping very little. Someone sailing non-stop downwind around the world, particularly on any kind of record attempt, would probably get a lot more of out of a hydro generator.

Another place hydro generators are seen is in the regenerative systems of systems like Oceanvolt . In these sophisticated systems, the propellors of the boat itself work as hydro generators by spinning and capturing energy as they’re dragged through the water under sail.

This feature is even starting to show up on electric outboards, such as the ePropulsion Navy series.

In summary, wind generators are the most practical choice for the average cruiser, multi-year circumnavigator or liveaboard sailor. Unless you love sailing so much that desperately want to go and tack around for four hours to charge your batteries – in which case, more power to you.

Wind generators can form an incredibly useful part of the renewable energy mix on board a sailboat.

While wind power on a sailboat works out many times more expensive than solar power, watt-for-watt, it makes up for this by generating power day and night – and often making even more power at times when solar falters, such as during storms.

Cruising sailboats that only have solar power will be forced to generate or motor if it’s cloudy for days on end, something that happens at least once or twice a month somewhere like the Caribbean.

Solar, naturally, doesn’t produce at night either, so if you have a lot of electrical loads running overnight your battery bank can take a beating.

A common example of where you might get caught out is night sailing with the autopilot, radar, AIS and instruments all running, in addition to your regular loads like the fridge.

Wind generators might usually be sized to produce less than a solar array because of cost, space and weight considerations, but they have the potential to run all day and night and in any kind of weather, and as such they often punch above their weight in terms of the overall energy generation picture.

Electrical loads might slow down a little overnight, as the crew sleep and lower temperatures mean fridges and freezers don’t work as hard, but it’s not uncommon for the overnight draw on a sailboat to be 8-10 amps or more. It adds up, by morning. 

Wind represents an excellent bridging technology for nights and extended cloudy spells, naturally producing the most when solar fails – such as during storms. 

A sailboat wind generator is most effective when paired with solar and a good lithium battery bank , allowing you to generate in all conditions. day and night; and to store and retrieve that energy efficiently even at high currents. 

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Better Sailing

Best Marine Wind Turbine Generators For Boats

Unless you are happy burning endless amounts of fuel, a marine wind turbine is an essential item fr an offshore cruising sailboat. In this article, we will be taking a look at some of the best wind generators for your boat.

Today’s cruisers carry so much electrical equipment that wind turbines, solar PV arrays, and hydro-generators are becoming more and more common. The marine wind turbine has been around for several decades now and has gradually been refined to give a much higher degree of efficiency. Better alternators, CAD-designed blades, life-sealed bearings, and smart charge controllers make the latest devices more reliable, quieter, and safer.

Things To Consider When Shopping For a Marine Wind Generator

Horizontal axis vs. vertical axis wind turbine.

The majority of marine wind turbines are horizontal axis devices, either upwind or downwind driven. These are powerful and, as such, need speed and/or charge output limiters, or they can burn out the batteries and self-destruct in storm-force winds. Vertical axis turbines are more suited to trickle charging – usually connected to one or two batteries up to 200Ah capacity. The blade design means they are unidirectional and thus have no need for a bulky tail fin to point them into the wind. They are also considerably quieter than most horizontal turbines and much easier to mount and install.

What Blade Design Should Your Wind Generator Have?

Modern turbines usually sport a one-piece, cast aluminum body and, commonly, three aerodynamically designed plastic/composite blades. One of the first of these models, the original Air-X, worked exceptionally well, particularly in high winds. However, it was so noisy that neighboring boats frequently complained, leaving the owner the option of turning it off or moving well away from other boats. Since then, CAD-inspired blade design has significantly helped to reduce ambient noise levels, although none could be termed silent.

Once your battery bank is fully charged, additional energy from the turbine needs to be dissipated, or the turbine stopped. Low power vertical-axis models don’t usually produce enough to warrant fitting a regulator, but the more powerful models all need some form of charge limiter to prevent overcharging. The simplest form of regulation is to switch it off when no further charge is needed. If you electrically disconnect the turbine, however, it can either damage the alternator diodes or carry on spinning at an even higher speed, so most are electrically ‘braked’ by shorting out their output wires, and a high-current switch is usually provided for this action.

If you leave a turbine running unattended, you’ll need an automatic regulator, and there are two systems commonly available. The first lets the turbine continue to spin and produce power, diverting any that isn’t needed into ‘dump’ resistors to burn off the excess as heat. While effective, it is pretty rudimentary, and you have to be careful where you mount the bulky resistors, which can get quite hot. Alternatively, some use this unwanted charge to pre-heat the hot water tank via an immersed element. Other turbines incorporate ‘pitch control’, comprising feathering blades that either flatten out or turn edge into the wind to regulate turning speed at high wind speeds.

Charge Controllers

A variety of automatic charge controllers are available, some more sophisticated than others, and you don’t necessarily need to use one from the same manufacturer unless it specifically states that you must. A basic model has a voltage-sensitive on/off switch that will trigger at a pre-set threshold battery voltage. The more useful controllers have a built-in display for monitoring turbine output and battery condition. Some can also accept and distribute charge from other sources, such as solar or hydro generation.

>>Also Read: Best Portable Boat Generators

Here Are Some Of The Best Best Marine Wind Turbine Generators For Sailboats

Auecoor solar wind hybrid system – best marine wind turbine generator on amazon.

The Auecoor Solar Wind Hybrid System is the best system to hook your boat/sailboat with. It is a hybrid system that utilizes both solar and wind power generation. This system is highly efficient, it is designed to withstand heavy wind loads, and it is ready to install on a boat/sailboat. They also produce many models to serve your needs, from 500 Watts all the way up to 2000 Watts in optimal weather conditions. 

All models come with a 400-Watt wind turbine generator, and then you can add as many 120-Watt high-conversion, waterproof and flexible solar panels as you need. This unit is also pretty easy to install. The solar panels are easy to transport, and they come with pre-drilled holes for easy installation. This is my personal favorite kind of setup and the one that I believe is the best for any serious boater. It provides 2 renewable sources of power that guarantee that whether you are making a passage or liveaboard in a nice beach somewhere, you will have dependable power as if you were living connected to the grid.

Air Breeze 200

Although the latest generation Air Breeze, made by Primus Windpower, provides an increased charge output, it is also quieter and should apparently outlast its predecessors. Its low start-up speed (4.2kn) means that, on average, it should be able to produce more energy than some higher-rated turbines over long periods of low-to-moderate wind speeds. Though it only has a maximum output of 200W, its output has been optimized to provide a more constant charge in typical northern European and Mediterranean wind conditions. The new Air Breeze weighs less than 6kg and has an integral electronic charge controller and over-speed regulator, rendering bulky dump resistors unnecessary and making installation considerably quicker and easier.

Leading Edge LE-300 or LE-450

A UK company, Leading Edge supplies wind turbines for both marine and terrestrial installation. The LE-300 and LE-450 are available in 12V, 24V, and 48V versions and are remarkably light, making them ideal for sailing yachts. The output is DC via two wires, and a run/stop switch is supplied that breaks the turbine by shorting the output. The units can also be supplied with charge controllers, a dump load style regulator that allows you to leave the turbine on 24/7 without the batteries overcharging. The three-bladed LE-300 is very light (6kg) and one of the quietest of the three-bladed models. However, its output is poor for a horizontal-axis turbine, although it starts spinning in the gentlest breeze. The five-bladed LE-450 is more powerful (105W at 15-knots) while remaining quiet and stable. Another great feature of this wind turbine is that it is the quietest marine wind generator tested.

Rutland 1200

The latest in the Rutland wind turbine line up, the 1200, is Marlec’s answer to the third generation three-blade, permanent magnet turbine models. More powerful than the 914i, it features a ‘Tri-namic’ blade design, which is said to provide a low start-up speed, very quiet running, and more power towards the top end of the wind scale. With a claimed peak production of 483W (that’s 35.5A at 12V) in 29 knots of wind, the 1200 can also supply a very useful 40W of power in just 10 knots of wind – a more realistic average in most waters.

The 1200’s charge controller has dual outputs for two separate battery banks and can accept up to a 20A solar PV supply. It reduces the turbine speed automatically after winds reach 30 knots, regulating the charge without using dump resistors. It also has an integral start/stop switch and can support a remote display, which connects to the controller via a simple Ethernet cable.

Eco-Worthy Wind Solar Power Kit

What can I say? I just love a good wind-solar hybrid power generator. With this kind of setup, you won’t have any problem charging a 12V or 24V battery bank with this hybrid system throughout the day, in any weather condition. The Eco-Worthy Wind Solar Power Hybrid generator can guarantee enough power for you to remain comfortable on your boat and operate any appliance you need and enjoy your time on the boat. You can purchase any model that fits our needs starting from 400 Watts all the way up to 1,400 Watts. However, always buy a generator that has a higher power output than you think you will need because you almost always won’t be in optimal climate conditions.

The blades on this German-built device are very steeply pitched towards the hub, resulting in an early start-up in lighter airs, and they also incorporate tiny fins along their length, said to quieten them at high speed. The blades have a kinetic rotor pitch control system designed to feather them in very high winds, not unlike the large terrestrial wind turbines. With a charge controller in the circuit, the turbine can therefore be left spinning in all weathers without worry. The output is two-wire 12V or 24V DC, so it could, in theory, be directly connected to a battery bank.

It can also be used with a simple short-circuit stop switch, which will slow it down enough to be tied off. The Superwind 350 can also be supplied with a 40A SCR Marine charge controller, which has two independent, diode-isolated outputs for start and service battery banks and dissipates unwanted energy via two large, wire-wound dump resistors. Nominal power is 350W at 25 knots.

Silentwind 400 Wind Generator

As fitted to all boats in the Volvo Ocean Race and featuring ‘Silent Power Blades’ – hand-laminated carbon blades, successfully tested at hurricane speeds – the latest Silentwind 400+ has improved wind tracking and earlier start-up than its predecessor, the 400. Featuring aerodynamics combined with a three-phase Neodymium-Iron-Boron permanent magnet generator, the 400+ is said to have a start-up speed of only 4.3 knots and a peak output of 420W at 30 percent less rotation speed than other 400W generators. 12V, 24V, and 48V models are available.

The Silentwind has a 3-wire AC output, which connects directly to the matching hybrid multi-stage charge controller that enables trickle charging and the connection of up to 20A of solar PV power. An adjustable boost function increases performance and optimizes the power yield, while the LCD displays all the important charge information. When the batteries are fully charged, the turbine automatically stops or switches to trickle charge mode with a significant reduction in rotation speed. It can also be stopped (braked) manually with the built-in switch on the controller.

Rutland 504 Wind Marine Generator

The Rutland 504 is a small and lightweight (just 3.5kg) mini-horizontal turbine from the UK off-grid power specialist, Marlec. The earlier model (503) has proven to be extremely popular over the years, in both the small leisure craft market and in commercial applications such as remote street lighting and signage, buoy lights, ATON power, etc., and the 504 should prove equally so. Like its predecessor, it is very compact, and its blades are ‘encapsulated’ – i.e., they have a protective ring around them to prevent limbs and clothing from getting caught up in the blades. Its output is better than that of the vertical-axis turbines but nowhere near the more powerful generators listed above. It is, however, notably quieter.

Typical output is around 15 knots of wind is 12W (1A @ 12V), doubling to 24W/2A at 20 knots. It also has a lower start-up speed than the vertical turbines and, although it takes around 10 knots of wind to provide any useful charge, its low-friction alternator compensates for the gusts by ‘smoothing out’ its output. The 504 does require a charge controller if it is to be left unattended.

 Leading Edge Vertical Wind Turbine

The LE-V50 and V150 vertical axis turbines are compact, lightweight, and virtually silent. The V50 measures 270mm dia x 456mm high and is intended for trickle-charging batteries or for running low-power devices. Available in 12V, 24V, or 48V versions, it has a nominal output of 12W but a peak of 70W. In typical waters, this results in an average charge of 0.5-1.0A @ 12Vdc in a fresh breeze. The bigger V150 model has a peak output of 200W but a more typical rating of 24W in wind speeds of 15 knots – double that of the V50. 

Leading Edge wind turbines were originally designed to generate power for industrial data monitoring equipment in very remote areas where there is no other power source; these often supplement solar PV arrays in an off-grid sailing situation.

>>Also Read: How to Charge a Sailboat Battery

Final Thoughts

There you have it; these are the best Best Marine Wind Turbine Generators for your boat or sailboat. Whether you are boating/sailing during your holidays or liveaboard full-time, a reliable power source is necessary. It will always provide you with the necessary power to operate your essential electronics, and depending on the power output you go for, it can fill up your batteries without an issue. Remember that when you are out in the water, it will be near impossible that there won’t be enough wind for a marine wind turbine to generate power, so you will rarely be without power. However, that’s why I always sail with both a wind generator and solar panels on board. 

Peter is the editor of Better Sailing. He has sailed for countless hours and has maintained his own boats and sailboats for years. After years of trial and error, he decided to start this website to share the knowledge.

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How to Install a Wind Generator on a Sailboat

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

June 15, 2022

The marine wind generator is, without a doubt, one of the most effective ways of charging your boat's batteries while you are away from the electricity grid. One of the most important things to take into account when selecting a marine wind generator for your boat is the installation process.

As a sailor, you'll most definitely rely on electricity in running various parts of your boat. In addition to the power needed to run the electronics that are of great importance for navigation and safety, electricity is essential for lighting, refrigeration, and running other appliances. But because you always sail deep in the water where there's no electricity, you need another source of power that we can use to charge the boat's batteries while we are out there on the water. This is where the wind comes in handy. You're already using wind to propel your sailboat, so it makes sense to use the very same wind to charge your boat's batteries and ensure that every part of your boat runs smoothly and meets your sailing needs.

Marine wind generators are more and more becoming a standard feature on sailboats. They are a great source of renewable energy and one of the most important things is to learn how to install a wind generator on a sailboat. Installing a wind generator on a sailboat is a process that must start with an assessment of the sailboat's power needs. Knowing the amount of power that your boat will consume in 24 hours will at least give you a rough idea of the size of the battery bank you require and how many amps your charging devices should produce.

You should also know where and how to install the wind generator's system. This will, of course, directly affect how well the wind generator's turbine converts the wind power into electrical energy. You should also ensure that the amount of battery storage available on your sailboat, as well as the controls available, is efficient in ensuring that the generated power doesn't go to waste.

In this article, we'll take a comprehensive look at how to install a wind generator on a sailboat and everything else you need to ensure that your wind generator works properly and efficiently.

Table of contents

The Importance of Using a Wind Generator on a Sailboat

Even though wind generators may not be of much help off the wind, they are increasingly becoming more appealing to sailors looking for an alternative source or extra power for their sailboats. The fact that they rely on the same wind that you use to move from one point to the other makes them quite a hit. Additionally, today's marine wind generators have undergone continuous improvement over the last few decades and are now well proven and quite reliable. This is exactly why wind generators are still common in sailing despite the advent of solar panels and hydro generators.

A wind generator will keep your boat's batteries charged at all times as long as there's wind. It doesn't matter whether you're at the port or out on the water, the wind generator will continuously pump out power even on cloudy days. That's not all; wind generators are cost-effective since they're maintenance-free and do not need any launch or recovery. More importantly, there are very powerful wind generator units that can produce more than 400 units of power, which is just enough to keep a fairly medium sailboat running and operating for 24 hours.

But just like with anything that has advantages, there must be some disadvantages. One of the most noticeable downsides of relying on a wind generator is that the power produced by the generator can significantly reduce if there's no wind. Most wind generators can manage to produce about 200 watts of power in wind speeds of 20 knots but things can even become worse when you're anchored at the port since winds are generally very low at the ports. As such, you may need an additional source of power such as solar panels, especially if your sailboat has heavy power requirements.

Installing a Wind Generator on a Sailboat

Installing a wind generator on your boat's charge system is a serious process that requires careful planning and attention. As we noted earlier, this process should start by first assessing your boat's power needs. You should be able to determine the amount of power that your boat and its appliances need to consume in at least 24 hours. This will certainly give you a clue of what you require.

The general idea is to ensure that you don't have to keep your boat's engine running so as to keep your batteries charged because this might not be enough in running your boat's appliances. In most cases, a boat's power needs are modest. Well, the boat generally needs power for lighting, running the navigation and safety equipment, refrigeration, and powering a stereo, if any.

The Equipment Required

One of the most important pieces of equipment required when installing a wind generator on your sailboat is the turbine. Generally speaking, the turbine should be functional at both medium and high wind speeds. You have to, however, keep in mind that even the biggest wind generator won't produce much power if the wind speed is below 8 knots. The turbine should be tough, reliable, and quiet. You certainly do not want a turbine that sounds like an approaching helicopter as this can be so annoying.

Given that early models are very noisy, three-bladed rotors are becoming more and more popular. They are smartly designed with CAD blades that significantly reduce the whistling and thrumming sounds that occur at the tips of the blades. These modern rotors are also designed to be more efficient and reduce friction through the use of permanent magnet alternators that allow speeds of the blades to be reduced, thereby reducing the noise levels considerably.

With that in mind, some of the best wind generators to go for include Air breeze, Eclectic Energy, Leading Edge, Rutland, Silentwind, and Superwind.

The Aerodynamics of Turbine Blades

Ensuring that power moves from the turbine's alternator and safely into your batteries may seem like a simple process. There are, however, aerodynamics involved and it only makes sense if you understand how they work.

In terms of the blades, they operate based on a similar principle or a plane's wing. There may be some differences but they are generally designed to produce optimum output. This means that the turbine blades should not go too fast as it can mitigate the wind generator's efficiency. The same applies if it is too slow. In essence, it works like a car gear so having very high or low gear can be inefficient. The idea here is that the airflow will become unstable if the blades are at very high speeds.

The best way to solve this problem is to rely on the "tip speed ratio". This technically describes whether or not the blade tips are moving faster than the actual wind speed. As such, the blade tips should be moving at 320 knots on 20-knot wind speed but there should also be the survival speed, which is just the right wind speed that is needed to produce the right amount of power to sustain your sailing needs.

The Amount of Power that Your Boat Needs

It's of great importance to budget for the amount of power to ensure that every facet of your sailboat is functioning properly. Of course, there are obvious appliances such as plotters, interior lights, and fridges. There are also navigation lights, engine monitors, entertainment systems, pumps, watermakers , gas alarms, electric winches, hydraulics, and many other things. You should also make a good margin that will have you covered if there's an emergency.

You should also consider other things such as air conditioning (though this may need fuel) as well as the type of sailing you're planning to do. Will you be sailing upwind or downwind? Well, such minute factors can significantly affect the amount of power that your boat needs. It is, therefore, crucial to determine a clear and accurate idea of how much power you need to generate to perfectly operate every part of your boat.

Mounting the Wind Generator

One of the most challenging things that revolve around how to install a wind generator on a sailboat is where to mount it. Location is very fundamental and can either positively or negatively affect how your wind generator operates.

The golden rule that governs the position of the wind generator is quite straightforward. It should be mounted in an area of the vessel where there will be no interruption of the flow of air or wind to the turbine from all directions. Generally, the wind generator is mounted on the boat's mast with two stays. You can easily raise or lower the wind generator if it is installed with a pivoting base. But if it is installed on a fixed mast, it can cause difficulty if you want to secure the wind generator when there's an impending storm.

And because the main aim is to optimize the output from a wind generator, there are a few important things to do. The most important thing is to ensure that it is very stable. This is because even a slight rolling or pitching might just be enough to rotate it away from the wind. The wind generator also requires clean air from all directions and as much as possible.

As you can see, these two principles seem to be at loggerheads given that you'll get more wind speed as you go higher but this may affect the stability of the turbines. With this in mind, mounting the wind generator on mizzen masts can be a good option but choosing to mount the turbine just above the cockpit is an even better option. The idea here is that it will be a lot easier to manually control the turbine if all other options of braking it doesn't work. Again, installing and maintaining the turbine overhead the cockpit is a lot easier than when it is mounted on the mizzen masts.

That's not all; mounting the turbine over the cockpit also means that the cables need to transport power from the turbine to the alternator are much shorter. This means that the wire diameter will be a lot smaller without necessarily affecting the voltage. The fact that the voltage can drop if the wind generator is mounted up higher on the masts should be particularly important.

This is because it can affect the overall performance of the wind generator and the power it produces and this means that the power supplied to your sailboat might just fall short. Again, a considerable amount of weight can be reduced if the turbine is mounted just over the cockpit. The cables will be reduced and the overall stability of the wind generator will be increased if it is installed overhead the cockpit.

Of course, you'll also have to install the electrics that come with the wind generator unit. For example, there's the controller that is used in regulating the power supply from the turbine, as well as the dump load resistor that is essential in absorbing any excessive current that may be produced when the batteries are fully charged. There's also an inline stop switch, which is essential in turning off the unit when it's not in use. Well, most of these installations are straightforward and are generally shown in the unit's installation guide.

Assembling the turbine should also be a walk in the park. Units do come with fasteners and are accompanied by installation instructions that are easy to understand and follow, thereby making the installation and assembling process a breeze.

So if you've decided to install the wind generator overhead the cockpit, which is our best location, you must find a perfectly sized pipe and mount it solidly at any corner of the stern. You have to ensure that you support the pole with at least some diagonal tubes so that it doesn't swivel. And if you are planning for an off voyage escapade, using the hose clamps to secure the main pole might not be the wise thing to do. This is because they'll most likely snap and twist as a result of constant vibration and miles of hard sailing.

Securing Your Boat's Wind Generator

With that in mind, you should also be prudent enough to secure the wind generator if there's a pending storm. As a sailor, you should be prudent, stay alert, and prepared in case there's a storm. The most important thing is to know the dynamic of the wind generator and how to apply electric brakes or even have the turbines lowered when there is a storm.

You can do this if the wind speeds are more than 15mph. This is of great importance in ensuring that the wind generator does not overheat or the blades do not break. You can also choose to remove the wind generator altogether and store it in a safe place.

All in all, the importance of having a wind generator on your sailboat as an alternative energy source can never be downplayed. This is a great source of renewable energy that will have your boat working perfectly well even if you are sailing in some of the remotest corners of the world. Just know how to install the wind generator, have it maintained, and protected when there's a pending storm and you'll be good to go.

Until next time, happy Sailing!

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I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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Marine Wind Generator Test

Practical sailors search for the best marine wind generator for cruising sailors unearthed two new units that will give the old guard a run for their money. the german-made superwind 350 and a lightweight prototype of the air breeze from southwest windpower, churned out maximum amps during four days of micro-wind turbine test..

The micro-wind turbines assembled for this comparison include the KISS High Output Wind Generator, the Rutland 913, the Superwind 350, the Ampair 100, and a prototype of the Air Breeze. The four-day test period brought a good mix of light- and strong-wind days, so testers were able to review wind generator output in a variety of conditions. Wind speeds for the 4-day period averaged 12.6 knots, with two blustery days, so were not surprised the high-output, three-bladed wind generators topped the five-bladed ones overall.

                                                    ****

Last month, Part One of Practical Sailor s wind generator test “Choosing a Wind Generator,” examined the various types of marine wind generators on the market today, and discussed what to consider before buying one. That article also previewed some of the key differences between the five wind generators we tested in March on the shores of Chesapeake Bay. This article examines these generators in more detail and presents the results of our field test, which tracked wind speed and output of the five wind generators over the course of four consecutive 24-hour periods.

The turbines assembled for this comparison include the KISS High Output Wind Generator, the Rutland 913, the Superwind 350, the Ampair 100, and a prototype of the Air Breeze. (A sixth unit, the three-bladed Ampair 300, looked promising, but failed on the first day of testing. It has been repaired, and PS will be reviewing it in a future issue.)

The tested units fall into one of two distinct categories: three-bladed wind generators with large-diameter rotors and high maximum outputs (Superwind, KISS, and Air Breeze) and six-bladed wind generators with small-diameter rotors and lower maximum outputs (Ampair 100 and Rutland). As pointed out in last months article, there are key differences between these types of turbines. The six-bladed units generally begin generating power in less wind and run quieter. The three-bladed units deliver significantly more amps as wind speed increases.

Wind generator makers Hamilton Ferris and Four Winds Enterprises were asked to provide products for the comparison, but neither could meet the deadline for the test. We have looked at units from these manufacturers before. The Hamilton Ferris hybrid water/wind was reviewed in our Feb. 15, 2003 issue. The earlier version of the Four Winds II was among several units compared during long-term testing in 1994 and 1995 .

The long-term test (Nov. 15, 1995) evaluated several different wind generators, one at a time, over several weeks and monitored output. Ultimately, Practical Sailor concluded that although wind generators are effective at producing high output in ideal conditions, their output in the winds you can expect in a comfortable harbor is less than stellar when averaged over the long haul. Only one generator in that test, the Wind Baron Neo Plus (no longer available, as far as we know) delivered more than 100 amp hours over 24 hours, and none had an average daily output greater than 10 amp hours, which is less than can be expected from one 80-watt solar panel on a moderately sunny day. Until this year, one obvious question remained unanswered, however: How would various micro turbines fare if exposed to the same variable winds in the same location for a fixed period of time?

Air Breeze (prototype)

Southwest Windpower, makers of the popular AirX Marine line of wind generators, supplied us with a prototype of the Air Breeze, which will soon be sold through West Marine. The unit we tested was essentially the new Air Breeze software and blades housed in an AirX body. Note that

Practical Sailor is withholding any final judgment on the Air Breeze, until we are able to test the final product.

The specs for our tested model were not readily available, but testers were told that they closely mirror that of the production Air Breeze, described here. The Air Breeze will be available in 12-, 24-, or 48-volt DC models and has a rated power of 200 watts at 19 knots. It uses a three-phase, brushless permanent magnet alternator, which produces AC power that is internally rectified to DC.

Turbine control is via a microprocessor-based smart internal regulator utilizing peak power tracking. However, the Air Breeze also has an internal voltage regulator with a factory set point of 14.1 volts (12-volt turbine) or 28.2 volts (24-volt system). The set point is also field adjustable to suit different charging regimes (an AGM battery, for example). This setup allows the unit to self-regulate in high winds and to automatically stop when the batteries are charged. Normal charging resumes when the battery voltage drops slightly below the fully charged level.

The body of the prototype unit (as well as the Air Breeze) was powder-coated cast aluminum. Construction of the prototype unit was excellent. Like the AirX before it, the Air Breeze has a distinct, downward pointing tail fin with a small cutout. The manufacturer says this allows for better tracking of the wind and better stability in rough seas. Oddly, testers noted this unit had more of a tendency to rotate briefly away from the wind, even in a steady breeze, but this seeking didnt keep it from producing the second highest total output in our test.

The Air Breeze was by far the easiest unit to mount in our test. The base simply slides on and clamps to a 1-inch diameter schedule 40 pipe, providing 360 degrees of continuous operation. The blades were constructed of glass-filled polypropylene. The maker says an improved rotor and blades will be on the production model.

Start-up speed is reported as 6 knots, while maximum or “survival speed” is listed as 96 knots, with over-speed protection provided automatically by electronic torque control, and manually by an optional stop switch. The Air Breeze also uses stall control of the blades. According to the makers, this function is much quieter than it was in previous models (such as the AirX and 403), since the stall mode is activated by the controller before the flutter RPM is reached. The result is a dramatic reduction in RPM in wind speeds above 30 knots, reduced wear on blades and bearings in high winds, and&emdash;most importantly&emdash;protection of the turbine from damage due to high winds. Stall mode is activated at about 19 knots, and will stay in effect until wind speed drops below 19 knots. If the Air Breeze senses wind speeds above 43 knots, it will shut down completely for five minutes.

The Air Breeze finished less than 6 amp hours behind the best recorded output for each 24-hour period.

Bottom Line:

Pluses for the Air Breeze prototype include high output (second overall), light weight (lightest overall), quiet operation, easy installation, excellent construction, and a low price. The unit will soon be available at West Marine for $915, according to the manufacturer. Testers also liked the charge LED display on the bottom of the unit, which gives a visual indication of unit output and can be used as a troubleshooting aid.

The Air Breezes downside is its limited field repair options, unless there have been significant changes from the AirX unit it replaces.

One of two small-rotor units tested was the Ampair 100 manufactured by Boost Energy Systems of Berkshire, U.K. A six-bladed unit, the Ampair 100 has a maximum output of 100 watts and produces AC, which is then converted to 12- or 24-volt DC (selected at time of order) by two bridge rectifiers located in the units lower body. The DC output of the regulators is paralleled and passed to two carbon brushes (also mounted in the lower body) and then to two phosphor-bronze slip rings (mounted on the stationary pivot shaft) allowing the unit to follow the wind 360 degrees without the use of commutator brushes. According to the manual, maximum output current automatically remains at a safe level due to self-inductance of the heavy-duty windings&emdash;it goes on to say that similar sized machines (with low inductance and light-duty windings) have to be protected against burnout by the use of temperature-activated cut-out switches.

The Ampair 100 is built like a tank. The unit consists of a painted, two-part cast aluminum body with attached aluminum tail vane. Fit and finish were excellent, and all other inspected external components were either stainless steel or of composite construction. Internally, there are two six-pole permanent magnet rotors (with poles in line) mounted on a stainless-steel shaft, which runs in two sealed, grease-packed ball bearings. Two six-pole stators (one located in the main body casting, the other in the nose cone) are arranged with their poles staggered at 30 degrees to minimize “cogging,” which can prevent a rotor from starting in light winds.

Although the Ampair 100 produces AC, its bridge rectifiers are located within the unit base (eliminating the need for a separate box), so installation is essentially the same as a unit that produces direct DC. If a blade is damaged, it and its opposing mate will have to be replaced together. However, you can run the unit (at reduced performance) with two blades removed until you get your replacements.

Start-up speed for the Ampair 100 is approximately 7 knots, and while the maker designates no maximum wind speed (only that its designed to survive storms), its manual does state that its a good plan to secure the unit if a severe storm is expected. There is a stop switch option. Without this switch, securing the unit involves these steps: grab the tail fin, swing the unit out of the wind, wait for it to stall, then secure the blades with a rope or bungee cord. The Ampair has a hole in the tail fin so users can grab it with a boat hook or an attached line.

The Ampair 100 is designed so it can be stripped in the field to replace damaged or worn components. The supporting literature is the best of the group&emdash;a well-illustrated manual, exploded views with part numbers, a troubleshooting guide, as well as a suggested list of spare parts for cruising in remote locations.

The Amp Air finished last after each 24-hour test period.

Compared with the entire test group (large- and small-rotor units), the Ampair was very well-constructed and exceptionally quiet. Compared to its nearest competitor, the Rutland, the Ampairs heavier construction and the ability to repair problems in the field give it a slight edge for those cruising in more remote locations. Its downsides are its output (the lowest of all the units tested) and its weight (the heaviest of all units tested).

KISS High Output

Manufactured in Trinidad by KISS Energy Systems and distributed in the U.S. by Hotwire Enterprises, the KISS High Output wind generator is a large-rotor, three-blade unit designed with Caribbean cruisers in mind. The name being an acronym for keeping things simple, the KISS generator uses a low-key, yet effective design to produce a unit that is not only rugged, but also easily serviced “in the wild” with parts readily available throughout the world. Its three-year warranty allows for authorized repair by another facility while youre out cruising.

Available in 12-, 24-, and 32-volt models, the KISS generates AC that is converted to DC by a 30-amp automotive diode pack and then fed directly to the ships electrical system. It uses a brushless, three-phase alternator. As mentioned in our first wind generator article, one advantage to this approach is that theres less voltage drop in AC wiring than in DC, a plus for installations with longer wire runs (such as a mizzen mast installation).

The KISS can be shut down via the provided on-off switch and is also protected from overheating by two thermal-sensitive bimetallic circuit breakers connected to the coils of the stator.

While not as finely finished as the other units tested, the KISS is nonetheless well constructed and pretty much bulletproof. It uses a sealed fiberglass motor housing and weighs only 17 pounds (plus 13 feet of wire at about 6 pounds), making it the second lightest unit we tested. The motor fits directly into its two-piece fiberglass housing, which is bolted together (through the motor) with four stainless-steel bolts and sealed with silicone. (An oil seal on the motor shaft provides additional weatherproofing.)

Other features include an alternator designed specifically to match the low speed characteristics of the rotor blades, epoxy-coated neodymium iron-boron magnets and plastic sealed No. 6203 metric ball bearings (commonly available worldwide) which, as per the manual “ensures that maintenance will be infrequent, simple, and inexpensive.”

The KISS essentially comes in two parts: the generator body and rotor (which the blades are bolted to). The blades are highly cambered with twist, taper, and elliptical tips for maximum torque at relatively low RPMs and reduced blade noise. Each blade is made of five layers of bi-axial glass roving, pressure molded in polyester for strength with minimal flex and very light weight. All three blades are bolted to the rotor, which screws onto the threaded motor shaft.

The three blades are selected at the factory to have similar dynamic weights, however final balancing by the customer is required once installed on the rotor. This is a straightforward process accomplished by trimming a strip of lead tape attached to each blade. The reason given for having the customer balance the blades was so they would be better balanced upon assembly (after shipping). If you don’t want the hassle, Hotwire Enterprises will pre-balance the blades for an additional $25.

As the blades are sold as sets (based on similar weights), the company recommends replacement of all three ($210) should a single blade be damaged. However, you can keep undamaged blades as emergency spares, balancing them with the spare lead tape provided.

The KISS is the only unit tested that did not use some form of rotary contact (a feature that allows multiple, 360-degree rotations). Instead, the unit comes with a tether connecting the tailfin to the mounting post, allowing the unit to turn no more than three revolutions in either direction. The manufacturer states that its rare that the unit will turn 360 degrees. A light spring installed in the mount tends to turn the unit back to the forward position when the wind stops. Optional mercury-contact slip-rings providing infinite 360-degree operation are available from Hotwire for an additional $200.

Start-up speed for the unit we tested was advertised at 7 to 8 knots, and while the KISS is guaranteed to hurricane winds, thermostats in the motor will begin cutting output at around 20 to 25 knots to prevent overheating. The KISS produced noticeably less power than the other three-blade units on the windy Days 2 and 4. The manual states that youll probably want to shut the unit down above 25 knots. This can be accomplished by utilizing the electric stop switch mounted in the control box.

The stop switch will slow the blades to a near stop in winds up to 42 knots (allowing you to secure the blades with a line). You can also manually shut down the unit using the line from its the tail to swing the tail into the wind. The KISS does not use set screws to attach the hub to the shaft, so its very easy to remove the blade assembly and stow below for hurricane preparation. The housing itself presents little windage. The KISS banked the most amp hours on Day 1, and was the only generator that did not record its highest output on Day 4.

The strong points of the KISS include simple, robust construction, excellent output for the tradewind cruising for which it was designed, and last&emdash;but certainly not least&emdash;the ability for the owner to repair virtually all aspects of the unit in the field. Downsides include slightly higher noise levels, the requirement for the customer to balance the blades (not due to difficulty, but as an additional step and potential problem if done incorrectly), and lower overall output than the other large diameter units tested.

Rutland 913

The Rutland 913 is the second six-bladed, small-rotor, wind generator featured in our test. Output of the Rutland 913 is 12 volts DC, and it is manufacturer-rated to deliver up to 250 watts. It is designed to provide power (via a battery or bank of batteries) to 12-volt or 24-volt systems. At $995, it is the least expensive production model we tested.

The Rutland 913 features all marine-grade materials and stainless-steel fittings. Highlights include a high-inertia generator, stator windings developed without an iron core (for low friction and low start-up speed), fiberglass encapsulated stator coils for reduced stator failures, and dual-encapsulated single magnets (eliminating the need for multiple, glued into place magnets).

The Rutland also features automatic thermostat protection (for use during prolonged high winds) and a start-up speed of 5 knots&emdash;the lowest of all the units tested. A shut-off switch is available with the optional HRDX charge controller ($295). The standard HRS charge controller is $149.

The Rutland 913 was not as heavily built as the Ampair, but construction was of a high quality. The Rutland comes pre-assembled with the exception of the blades and nose cone, both of which were very easy to install. The six turbine blades are a glass-reinforced nylon composite.

If a blade is broken, it should be replaced along with the opposing blade to maintain balance. However, until replacements are installed, the 913 can still be operated by removing every other blade, so that it is still in balance.

The Rutland manual doesn’t list a maximum operating wind speed. It does mention that higher winds may trigger the units built-in thermostat to prevent the generator from overheating. If it does, output stops, and the turbine will temporarily speed up until the units internal temperature drops back down to normal, after which it starts charging again. The manual indicates you may see this cycling in prolonged winds (particularly in higher ambient temperatures), and that if storm winds are forecast, you may want to secure the unit to minimize wear and tear.

The 913 “is designed for continuous running to achieve maximum resistance to water ingress,” and if restrained for any extended length of time, it should be covered.

The Rutland 913 does not have a stop-switch option. Stopping is essentially the same procedure as with any wind generator without a braking option: Grab the tail, swing the unit out of the wind (180 degrees), and once the unit stalls, throw a rope around a blade or two and tie to the mounting pole.

Theres a small hole in the lower lobe of the Rutlands tail assembly to make this operation a bit safer by allowing you to grab the tail with a boat hook. You can also install a small tagline through the same hole to make it safer to grab whenever you need to secure the unit&emdash;just be sure it wont tangle in the blades.

The Rutland 913 was the quietest unit in our test group, having a slight edge over the Ampair 100, its closest competitor noise-wise. (Not surprisingly, the two small-rotor units were the quietest of the group). The Rutland was well-constructed, had the lowest start-up speed and the quietest operation. Compared to the other small-rotor unit, the Ampair 100, it produced more and was quieter (although only slightly so). The decision between these two boils down to the Ampairs rugged construction and repairability versus the Rutlands slightly better performance.

The Rutland 913 finished next to last on every day except when the wind was light on Day 3, when it was 0.5 amp hours behind the Superwind.

Superwind 350

The Superwind 350 is a three-bladed, large-rotor unit manufactured by Superwind GmbH located in Bruhl, Germany, who recently signed on U.S. distributor Starboard Sun Corp. of Amherst, N.Y. ( www.starboardsun.com ).

The Superwind is a 350-watt unit that produces DC current and is available in 12- or 24-volt output. Similar to what youd see in larger wind turbines, the Superwinds rotor control system adjusts the pitch angle of the blades for power and for limiting rotor speed, even during extreme wind velocities. In winds over 24 knots, the rotor control system adjusts blade pitch to keep power output constant.

The Superwinds fit and finish were excellent. The generator body, rotor, and tail assembly are powder-coated “sea water-proof aluminum.” Total weight for the assembled unit is approximately 25 pounds. Features include a no-maintenance, permanent magnet design incorporating neodymium magnets in a three-phase generator with an internal rectifier. The Superwind comes with a three-year warranty on parts and workmanship, however, it does have some basic exclusions, such as floods, lightning strikes, fire, etc.

The Superwind is delivered in three easily assembled parts: the generator body, rotor (which the blades are attached to), and the tail, or wind vane. Each carbon fiber-reinforced blade is mounted to the rotor using two flush-mounted, stainless-steel Allen head screws. The blades come balanced from the factory, meaning if one blade is damaged, youll have to replace all three at a cost of about $250, plus shipping. It was the most difficult to install, requiring that you measure, drill, and tap two metric holes in the schedule 40, 1 1/2-inch tube to accept the mounting bolts. An optional adaptor for mounting on 2-inch diameter steel or aluminum pipe is also available.

The Superwind produces DC, so the electrical installation is pretty straightforward and well-documented in the manual. Due to high power output, installation of a battery charge controller and a stop switch is highly recommended. Superwind sells its own controller for $480 and a stop switch for $89.

The Superwind manual has a basic troubleshooting flow chart, but if its anything more complicated than replacing damaged blades, swapping out the carbon brushes or checking for blown fuses, youll likely have to send the unit for repair.

The Superwind edged out the Air Breeze with overall output, and was the top performer in every period, except the first, when it recorded the second lowest output total.

The Superwind was the overall winner with regards to putting amp hours in the proverbial battery bank. It was very well constructed, relatively quiet for a large-rotor unit, and performed well, even on the lowest wind day (relative to the other models). Its downsides include limited field repair options, a hefty price tag, and the fact that it is a newcomer to the U.S. market.

Clearly, we are looking at two different animals here: quiet, lower-output, five-bladed units that deliver power on most days when theres a breeze; and three-bladed units that can bank some serious amp hours when the wind is up. Although the test period was relatively short, it brought a good mix of light- and strong-wind days, so testers were able to monitor output in a variety of conditions. Although isolating each period is instructive, the final average for the four days is, in our view, the most useful number.

Wind speed for the 4-day period averaged 12.6 knots, with two blustery days, so were not surprised the high-output, three-bladed wind generators topped the five-bladed ones overall.

The Superwind did the best on every day, except Day 1, when winds mostly hovered around 10-12 knots. Most striking was the Superwinds superior performance on the mostly light-wind Day 3. More importantly, Superwind was a robustly built unit that ran quietly while it went to work. It is also the second heaviest unit and the most expensive by far.

If there is any concern we about the Superwind (besides the price), its that its new to the U.S. and only recently signed on with a distributor here. Wind generator makers have come and gone over the years, and we hope this one&emdash;started in 2004&emdash;sticks around.

The Air Breeze prototype looks very promising and might even have been the Best Choice, except that we have not tested the actual unit that will be for sale. If youre not in a hurry to buy, you should wait for our update on that model. The KISS, which climbed to the top on Day 1 and placed third in output overall, is our Budget Buy for high-output models, and would be well-suited for tradewind cruising. It suffered in winds less than 10 knots and was slightly noisier, but it is well built, and for DIY types, it is eminently serviceable.

Of the silent running, six-bladed wind generators, the Ampair gets a recommendation for serious cruisers who want “built-like-a-tank” construction, and repairability in the field. The Rutland 913 is our Budget Buy in the five-bladed category. Based on our testing, it is the most affordable route to quiet windpower and superior output in light wind conditions.

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Wind Turbines For Boats (A guide for seafarers)

If you’re a sailor or boat owner, you know how important it is to keep your batteries charged. But did you know that you can use sustainable energy to power your boat? In fact, you can harness the wind’s kinetic energy with wind turbines for boats.

Humans have been harnessing the wind for thousands of years. Early seafarers have used this wind to power their boats, getting as far as Australia!

But with modern technology, you can now use this kinetic energy to power your boat’s batteries!

We cover everything you need to know in this guide on wind turbines for boats. We look at the type of turbine you need, calculate the required energy, and the costs involved.

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Table of Contents

Can A Wind Turbine Power A Boat?

With advances in alternative power technology, boats have started taking advantage of solar and wind energy.

By installing a small turbine onto your vessel, you’ll be able to charge your batteries as long as there’s wind. 

However, this doesn’t mean you’ll be able to power your whole boat. Sure, you’ll be able to harness some kinetic energy from the wind, it might not be enough. 

There are a lot of appliances and crucial instruments on board that need power.

Ideally, wind turbines can power your average sailboat boat, but a couple of factors could affect this. 

Some of these influences are:

• The wind resources available in your cruising area:  windspeeds along a coastline differ from windspeeds on a lake.
• Turbine placement:  the higher you mount a turbine on a boat, the more electricity it’ll generate.
• How often you use your boat:  you’re more likely to experience higher wind speeds while sailing than in the harbor. 

Regardless, a wind turbine for boats is handy to install, even if it’s just for that extra boost. 

What Size Wind Turbine Does My Boat Need?

Your energy requirements will determine the size of your boat’s wind turbine.

For example, if you’re going for a fun and relaxed trip, you’ll only need power for your electronics. Conversely, if you’re going fishing or trolling, you’ll need a more extensive battery system. 

Understanding The Math Of Wind Turbines For Boats

Calculating a power turbine’s energy output can be a little confusing; let’s go through the math to understand everything better. 

This formula works out each electronics power demand and, ultimately, your boat’s power demand. 

Power (W) = Voltage (V) x Current (A)

The next thing to remember is that each device has a runtime — while the device is running, it uses power (watts). The number of watts something uses in an hour is called watt-hours. For example, an appliance rated 500 W will use 500 Wh of energy in an hour. 

The same appliance rated 500 W will use 1000 Wh in two hours — this is the same as 1 kilowatt. 

Amperes – or amps for short – is a unit of measurement of electric current. They’re also used to indicate the capacity of your battery. 

Energy (Wh) = Voltage (V) x Capacity (Amp-hours or Ah)

For example, a 12 V, 100 Ah battery will give you 1200Wh

Wh = 12V x 100Ah ∴ Wh = 1200

That means your battery can give off 1.2 kW of energy per hour. 

How Much Power Does Your Boat Use? 

The size of your battery will determine what size your wind turbine you’ll need. For example, a wind turbine that generates 400 watts can charge an 800 Ah battery for a day on a 12-volt system . 

The average 45-foot sailing boat uses 150 amp-hours per day. However, your battery bank needs to be at least double or triple the size, so it doesn’t deplete. For example, a 450 Ah capacity battery in a 12V system would require 5.4 kWh per day. Can a wind turbine generate that much power?

As we’ll see later in this article, the average wind turbine has a max of 0.42 kWh. So on paper, that’s 10 kWh per day. However, in reality, it’s much different.

You see, the 0.42kWh is only guaranteed when you’re facing 20-knot winds all the time. Unfortunately, that’s not possible – at least for most of us. 

In fact, according to Betz law , your wind turbine will only generate 59% of its actual capacity. Taking that into account, let’s see if a 420 W wind turbine will still power our example boat: 

0.59 x 10 kWh = 5.9 kWh

That’s just over the amount your battery can handle. 

Which Boat Wind Turbine Is Suitable For You?

To determine which turbine is suitable for you, you’ll have to calculate the power demand of your boat. You’ll multiply the amps per device by its runtime to do this. For example, Autopilot uses 4 amps, and you use it for 12 hours — that’s 48 Ah. 

Based on this seafarer’s measurements, here’s a general look at how much power a vessel uses: 

If this sounds right for your boat, you’ll need 138.8 Ah during the day and 117.3 Ah at night — that’s around 256.1 Ah per day. 

Additionally, we’ll need to know the kWh to determine the turbine size. Using the calculation above, we can calculate that the required energy is 3073.2 Wh which is 3.07 kWh. 

To ensure that your battery doesn’t deplete, let’s double the required energy, which now equals 6.14 kWh.

In conclusion, you’ll need a turbine that generates 6.14 kWh per day. 

How Much Can The Average Wind Turbines For Boats Generate?

Due to external factors, your turbine will only generate 59% of its capacity. For instance, the average turbine can produce 0.42 kW at 20-knot winds. However, it’s more likely that your average recreational sailboat will experience 12-knot winds. 

At 12 knots, the average turbine generates 53 watts, equal to 1.2 Kwh per day. Unfortunately, 59% of that is only 0.75 kWh. That’s nowhere near the required amount.

Perhaps you’ll find that this amount of energy will power your boat. If not, hopefully, it can at least power your fridge, GPS, lights, and freshwater pump.

How Much Do Boat Wind Turbines Cost?

That was a lot to get through, but the hard part is over.

Now that you know your turbine requirements’ wattage, you can start looking at prices.

Off the bat, the average turbine will cost $1446 and can generate a maximum of 885 watts. But, of course, this is the maximum wattage, and you’re unlikely to reach this capacity.

Here’s a table of turbines that compares the wattage to price:

Surprisingly, the most cost-efficient turbines are the ones with higher wattage. Therefore, you can say that forking out the extra money for a higher wattage turbine is worth the investment.

Where Is The Best Place To Install A Wind Turbine On A Boat?

Wind turbines for boats are most efficient when facing directly into the wind. Any swaying or rocking will cause the turbine to turn away from the wind, decreasing efficiency. As such, it’s best to place the turbine near sea level or above the cockpit.

The Higher It’s Placed

Did you know that placing the turbine higher will increase its production rate? In fact, setting the turbine on the masthead can increase its efficiency by 50% . However, putting the heavy machinery that high can disrupt your vessel’s stability. 

In addition, the pendulum effect of the boat is more intense at that height, decreasing the turbine’s efficiency. 

Near Cockpit Level

However, placing the turbine just above the cockpit is a good option and here’s why:

• Having the turbine above the cockpit allows for easy access, making maintenance easier. 
• While the wind speeds are slower at this level, the turbine will be more stable.
• The distance between the turbine and the battery bank is smaller. This means you can run smaller cables between the two. 
• You won’t have to worry about voltage drop due to the short transfer distance.

The Downside

Having a spinning rotor and blades near you can be dangerous, especially in high winds. Just keep an eye out for the ‘sweep’ area of the blades and ensure the turbine is positioned high enough. 

How Much kWh Can A Boat Wind Turbine Produce?

‘How much’ is always tricky as multiple factors are involved. For instance, there are different wind speeds according to where you sail. However, most manufacturers say that their turbines have a max of 0.42kWh. 

To understand this better, let’s look at three different turbine models and compare their stats. 

The Silentwind turbine has a maximum output of 420w at a wind speed of 25 knots (28 mph). However, most boats will only experience a max of 20 kt (23 mph). At this wind speed, Silentwind can generate up to 140w. 

In addition, the turbine has a cut-in speed of 6.2 kt. (7 mph). However, common wind conditions of 12 kt. (13.8 mph) will generate 45w. 

The Silentwind turbine sells for $2,069 with the option of a mast-connector kit for $420. 

Rutland 914i Windcharger

The Rutland promises a 30% efficiency increase due to its maximum power point tracking (MPPT). It has a maximum output of 450w at a wind speed of 28 kt (32 mph) and a cut-in speed of 4 kt (4.6 mph)

At 20 knots wind, it generates 255w, and at 12 knots, it drops down to 60w. You can buy the Rutland for $729.95 and view its brochure here . 

Nature Power wind generator 

Nature Power offers a turbine that generates 500w, making it a good option for larger boats. It has a maximum wind speed of 24 kt (27 mph) and a 6.1 kt (7 mph) cut-in speed. 

Additionally, it ranges from 55w to 280w between 12 kt and 20 kt wind speeds. 

The turbine goes for $534 and includes an internal MPPT regulator.

Comparison Table Of Wind Turbines For Boats

Let’s put those in a table to compare the figures. Something to keep in mind is that 400w is about 800 amp-hours per day on a 12V system. 

Are Wind Turbines Better Than Solar Panels On A Boat?

Wind turbines and solar panels are great options to install on a boat. However, which is better? Their price and efficiency can determine this.

Cost Comparisons Between Solar Panels And Wind Turbines For Boats

When comparing costs, the number of watts generated is vital. For example, a solar panel might generate the same wattage as two turbines. 

You’ll have to do some research and calculations to determine your boat’s energy needs. By doing so, you can calculate how many solar panels/wind turbines you would need. 

In addition, the price of solar panels and wind turbines will depend on your location. But, a quick comparison puts wind turbines for boats in a higher price bracket than solar panels. 

Solar Panels cost anywhere between $400 and $1200. In contrast, most wind turbines fall in an $1100 to $1800 price bracket. 

Efficiency Comparison 

Both solar panels and wind turbines come with their advantages and disadvantages. These affect the efficiency and energy output of your boat. 

The most significant difference is that solar panels won’t generate power at night or on cloudy days. On the other hand, wind turbines can generate power 24/7. In addition, since they have low cut-in speeds, the turbines will continuously generate power as long as there’s wind. 

However, solar panels have a lifespan of 25 years, while wind turbines for boats only last 20 years. It’s also important to note that solar panels don’t need a lot of maintenance, whereas wind turbines do. 

Lastly, solar panels tend to generate more power than wind turbines. Depending on your sailing needs, you might prefer solar panels to wind turbines or vice versa. So at the end of the day, the choice is yours. 

Final Thoughts

And there you have it, a complete guide to wind turbines for boats!

We’ve looked at calculating the energy requirements of your boat and how to match that with turbines. Additionally, we compared different turbine costs and kW outputs. Lastly, we looked at three different types of marine turbines which you can use.

In conclusion, wind turbines are exceptionally efficient for smaller sailboats or recreational boats. However, wind turbines can also work if you have a larger boat and are just looking for an extra boost.

We suggest a hybrid solar panels and wind turbines system for larger boats with high energy demands.

If you have any questions or want to share your projects, we encourage you to join our community !

Tags: wind turbines for boats

Kyle is a researcher and content specialist at Climatebiz. He has a strong interest in green technology, particularly in photovoltaic systems. Kyle believes in a future where everyone has affordable access to renewable energy, regardless of their race, religion, or social status. This ideology led Kyle to found Climatebiz - with the goal to provide free information for anyone, anytime. You can follow Kyle on Twitter at @kylebrwng

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I have a wind generator on my boat + solar panels. I wish to buy the electrical device that shares and supplies the power to the boat batteries (the charger) that can work with both sources (generator + s. panel) . Where can I find it – and what are your recomendations?

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Best Wind Generators for Sailboats of 2024

Sailing gives us freedom: we don’t need a motor or fuel to travel the oceans. That freedom isn’t absolute. Most sailors still rely on electricity for lighting, refrigeration, small appliances, and to run the electronics that we rely on for navigation and safety. That means we need batteries, and if we rely on batteries, we have to charge the batteries. Since we’re already using the wind to move us from place to place, it makes sense to use that same energy source to keep our batteries charged up and ready for action. Wind generators are increasingly becoming a standard feature on cruising sailboats, and a wide range of products have emerged to meet the demand. This review of the best wind generators for sailboats will help you select the product that best meets your needs.

For more of our top sailing gear recommendations, check out the Best Solar Panels for Sailboats .

Quick Answer - The Best Wind Generators for Sailboats

• AutoMaxx DB-400 View at Amazon
• Primus Wind Power Air-X Marine View at Amazon
• Nature Power 2000W View at Amazon
• Missouri General Freedom II View at Amazon
• Nature Power 400W View at Amazon

Comparison Table - Best Wind Generator for Sailboats

Reviews - The Best Sailboat Wind Generator

Automaxx db-400.

• Optimal Power AT : 28 MPH
• Rated Output : 400 Watts
• Voltage : 12V
• Minimum Wind Speed : 6.7 MPH
• Maximum Wind Speed : 112 MPH
• Blade Diameter : 48”
• Automatic Braking Controls Your Speed In High Wind
• Built-In Charge Controller And Overcharge Protection
• Maximum Power Point Tracking Gets The Most Power From Any Wind

BEST BUDGET WIND GENERATOR

If you want to try out wind power without spending a fortune and you’re looking for a basic, versatile device suitable for use on land or water, the Automaxx DB-400 is what you need. The durable polypropylene and fiberglass construction of this affordable wind generator resists corrosion and all parts are protected from both water and UV radiation. 

Some reviewers complain that these units fail to spin at the advertised cut-in speed and generated less power than expected, but many others reported performance consistent with expectations. It’s difficult to say whether these deficiencies are caused by installation issues, inconsistent products, or excessive expectations. It’s always good to test your unit on arrival and assure that it’s doing what it needs to do! 

As with all units listed here, you’ll need a mounting pole for this generator, but other than that it’s ready to install: the charge controller is built-in and you can wire it to your battery pack and forget about it!

Primus Wind Power Air-X Marine

• Weight : 13 lb.
• Voltage : Adjustable Output
• Minimum Wind Speed : 8 MPH
• Maximum Wind Speed : 110 MPH
• Blade Diameter : 46"
• Easy Installation: Wire Directly To Battery Bank
• Auto-Brake Regulator Slows Blades When Battery Is Charged
• Built-In Charge Controller
• Marine-Specific Design And Materials

BEST OVERALL SMALL WIND GENERATOR

The Air-X Marine is the Rolls-Royce of small wind turbines. It’s made entirely in Colorado, and the relatively high price is reflected in the features and overall quality of the unit. It costs three times as much as an entry-level unit with the same output rating, but you get what you pay for.

The unit squeezes its mechanical and electrical components into a tiny ultralight package that is ideal for higher mounts and requires much less effort to secure than heavier bulkier units. You get a sophisticated built-in charge controller with external indicators to tell you when you are charging and when your batteries are full, and the unit is fully use-ready. Just wire it to your battery bank and you’re ready to charge.

This unit is one of the most popular sailing wind generators on the market for good reasons. It’s quiet, efficient, and gets the job done with no extra effort and very little maintenance.

Nature Power 2000W

• Weight : 38 lb.
• Optimal Power AT : 45 MPH
• Rated Output : 2000 Watts
• Voltage : 24V
• Blade Diameter : 70”
• External Controller With LCD Output Display
• Industrial-Strength Aluminum Body With Marine-Grade Coating Means This Generator Will Last Your For Years To Come
• Electromagnetic Brake System For Overcharge Control
• Low-Noise Carbon Fiber Blades

BEST OVERALL LARGE WIND GENERATOR

This is the big boy: a full-on 2000 watt marine wind turbine, ready to install and power up some serious juice to feed those hungry batteries. The unit is designed to be effectively maintenance-free, with a coated cast aluminum body and carbon fiber blades engineered for quiet operation. There’s an external charge controller with an LCD output display to let you know what you’re generating and what your charge status is. Electromagnetic braking prevents potential damage from high winds and overcharging.

You’ll need 45 knots of wind to generate the full 2000 watts, but even at lower speeds, you’ll be putting out enough power to keep your batteries topped up. Paired with a solar array, this wind generator will give you all you need for complete energy independence!

Missouri General Freedom II

• Weight : 59 lb.
• Blades : 11
• Optimal Power AT : Not Specified
• Voltage : 12/24V
• Minimum Wind Speed : 6 MPH
• Maximum Wind Speed : 125 MPH
• Blade Diameter : 62.5"
• Rust-Proof Galvanized Components With Zinc-Plated Hub Make This Wind Generator Almost Indestructible
• 28-Magnet Generator For Maximum Power
• Aerodynamically Tapered Carbon Fiber Blades

BEST POWER-TO-PRICE RATIO 

If you’re looking to step up to a higher-output wind system without spending a fortune, Missouri General delivers with the Freedom II. This unit adopts a radically different design philosophy, featuring 11 carbon fiber blades to get maximum power out of wind in the lower end of the charging range. The Freedom II uses a permanent-magnet generator and several other unique design features to achieve high efficiency and durability.

This unit is quite inexpensive on a price-for-power scale, but it does not arrive installation-ready and you’ll have to add a charge controller, a dump load to protect your battery from overcharging, and cables. You’ll probably also need to have an electrician install the unit to assure that those components are correctly connected and working as they should!

Nature Power 400W

• Optimal Power AT : 27 MPH
• Minimum Wind Speed : 7 MPH
• Marine Grade Coating And Sealing For Durability
• Low-Noise Carbon Composite Blades
• Smart Charge Controller For Maximum Output

BEST LIGHTWEIGHT BUDGET WIND GENERATOR

Nature Power turbines are designed specifically for marine use and offer a durable, corrosion-resistant cast aluminum body and whisper-quiet carbon fiber blades. There’s a specialized electromagnetic braking system designed to keep the unit within its electrical and mechanical limits without the wear and tear associated with mechanical braking and a smart controller that adjusts the voltage-to-current ratio for peak charging efficiency. The low weight of the unit makes it ideal for mast installations or other high mounts. As with any relatively low-output wind generator, you can’t expect to rely on this unit for all of your charging needs. It’s very well suited to use in conjunction with solar panels: on hot, still days the sun does the work, and when the weather turns sour or you’re out at sea, the wind will kick in with its share. This is an excellent choice for the wind component of a combined solar/wind generation system.

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A WIND GENERATOR

It’s important to recognize that while wind power is useful, it isn’t magic. Most modern wind generators will begin generating power in quite light winds, but the output may be minimal and you’ll need sustained higher winds to deliver the charge you want.

If you’re moving downwind, you may get less charge than you expect: if the wind is at 20 knots and your downwind speed is 8 knots, your wind generator will be effectively receiving 12 knots, not 20! Many sailors find that a wind generator combined with a solar array is the most effective power solution, and some add a towed generator that generates power when dragged through the water as an additional option. The power mix that best suits you is something you’ll have to decide, but there’s a good chance that wind will be part of it!

Read through these things to consider to get a better sense of how to choose which wind generator is right for you so that you can get back on the water and enjoy the wind in your hair without worrying about losing electricity unexpectedly!

MANAGE YOUR EXPECTATIONS

A common complaint about wind generators is that they don’t deliver as much power as expected. This is more often a problem of simple physics than an issue with defective units or improper installation. The power delivered by wind increases with the cube of the wind speed, meaning that (keeping things very simple), a 20-knot wind delivers 8 times the power of a 10-knot wind. If you expect a unit that’s rated to deliver 400 watts of power at 28 knots of speed to deliver 200 watts at 14 knots, you will be disappointed, and it won’t be the unit’s fault!

While most units will cut in (start working) at 6 to 7 knots, don’t expect to generate measurable power until you reach 10-12 knots. Remember that if you’re on a downwind heading the apparent wind – the wind speed actually experienced by your generator – will be wind velocity minus hull speed. And remember that most anchorages were chosen because they are protected from the wind.

All in all, you are likely to find yourself generating less power than you expected. That doesn’t mean the installation is useless: it will contribute, it will charge your batteries while you sail, and if used in conjunction with solar panels, it can meet your charging needs. It’s a useful tool, not a magic bullet!

INSTALLATION

Your choice of generator will be affected by your installation options. Some sailors opt for masthead or mizzenmast installations, which can receive up to 50% more wind than lower placements but which are less accessible for maintenance and involve longer cable runs with more resistance. If you’re looking at such an installation, you’ll want a lightweight, low-maintenance unit. Most sailors prefer installation above the cockpit or transom, high enough to keep blades away from people and equipment but low enough for easy access and relatively short cable runs.

WATCH OUT FOR HIGH WINDS

Manufacturers claim very high maximum wind tolerances, but these are often based on wind-tunnel tests using controlled wind from a single direction. Turbulence can increase the burden on the device, and if you’re expecting wind in excess of 50 knots, taking down the generator is a wise precaution.

THE NOISE FACTOR

Noise and vibration were once huge problems with wind generators, with users reporting everything from a repetitive whump to a screaming howl. Modern construction and improved blade design have made turbines much quieter, but noise and vibration can still be issues. It’s great to generate power while you sleep, but not so great to have your generator keeping you awake! You may wish to check out some working installations to get a sense of how much noise is involved.

If you’re wondering whether to go with wind or solar, All At Sea and eMarine have useful articles weighing in on that eternal debate. For more information on Wind Generators, try these articles from Yacht Unlimited and Sail .

FEATURES EXPLAINED

About those numbers.

Rated Output is the maximum number of watts a unit can put out under ideal conditions. These numbers are based on wind tunnel tests and are rarely if ever achieved in the field.

Minimum (or “cut-in”) Wind Speed is the wind speed required to turn the blades. Very little power will be produced at this level.

Maximum Power is achieved at a specific target wind speed. Most units are designed to begin braking or “cutting out” power at speeds above this level.

Blade Diameter is the end-to-end distance between blade tips. You’ll need to consider this distance when mounting the unit to keep the blades well clear of any obstructions.

Voltage is the unit’s output voltage, which needs to match the voltage of your battery array.

Maximum Wind Speed is the highest wind the unit can survive. This may be substantially reduced by turbulence!

SOME COMMON FEATURES

Charge Controllers are devices that regulate the output of your generator to maximize the charging of your battery. Some units have built-in controllers with different levels of sophistication, and others do not.

Braking may be mechanical or electromagnetic and is used to assure that the unit’s rotation will not exceed its mechanical or electrical limits. Electromagnetic braking is claimed by some to produce less wear and tear.

Tracking Systems keep the blades facing the wind and keep the unit from spinning on its mount axis, which will twist the cable and damage the installation.

Blades may be fiberglass or carbon fiber, with more expensive units usually using carbon fiber. Many blades are designed to flex and shed wind if wind velocity exceeds design limits.

Corrosion Resistance is achieved by using a variety of coatings and materials. Marine environments place an aggressive burden on materials and both exterior materials and sealing are very important to keep units working.

A Dump Load is a device that diverts excess power to resistors that radiate it as heat, protecting batteries from overcharging.

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Wind generators – buyers’ guide

After a flurry of recent technological developments, Duncan Kent compares the latest high-output wind turbines

Three-bladed rotors have become increasingly popular. Although early models were quite noisy, smart CAD-designed blades have considerably reduced the thrumming and whistling sounds by removing the turbulence around the blade tips. Furthermore, the use of more efficient, low-cogging (less initial friction) permanent-magnet alternators has also allowed blade speeds to be reduced, further limiting ambient noise levels.

AIRBREEZE £1,169.50

The Airbreeze is easy to assemble as everything is contained within the casing, requiring only a quick blade assembly before being ready to mount. It’s not the most powerful and can be a little noisy in high winds, but it’s very good value as you don’t need to spend money and time installing an external charge controller.

Verdict: Easy to assemble, mount and operate, but noisier and less powerful than some

ecopowershop.com

ECLECTIC ENERGY D400 £1,350

Although it’s fairly straightforward to assemble, it’s not made any easier by the sheer weight of the generator.

During previous trials it proved to be one of the quietest on test, started quickly and outputting an increasingly progressive rate of charge. It is also less prone to yaw from side to side than some, keeping head into wind to ensure a more stable output.

Provided its mounting can handle the loads, its sturdy build allows it to continue operating in very high winds, producing a staggering 50A+.

Verdict: Solidly engineered, very powerful and quiet. The flip side is it’s heavy and needs dump resistors

eclectic-energy.co.uk

LEADING EDGE LE-300 £649.95

The device is easy to assemble and light enough to carry in one hand. An integral rectifier produces a two-wire DC output and its efficiency has recently been improved with the fitting of stainless steel counterweights to offset the effects of pitching and yawing common on a yacht.

A run/stop switch is supplied that brakes the turbine by shorting its output. It can also be supplied with a dump load style regulator to prevent overcharging (£189.95).

The LE-300 is probably the quietest of all the three-blade models available, but it’s also one of the least powerful.

Verdict: Light and great value, but with a lower output than many of the others

leturbines.com

LEADING EDGE LE-450 £899.95

The alternator uses rare earth fixed magnets and has zero ‘cogging’, allowing the turbine to start quickly and to spin in the lightest of breezes. Furthermore, having five blades of advanced design allows the swing radius to be kept to a minimum and reduces wind noise noticeably, while its light weight allows it to be safely mounted on a mizzen mast or possibly even a stout spreader.

Verdict: Well designed, lightweight and good value, but needs manual tethering in over 35kt of wind

RUTLAND 914i £649.96

An optional multi-stage charge regulator is available, which has an on/off switch and LED charge status indictors. It can also accept and integrate solar panels up to 160W.

The surprisingly cheap HRSi regulator (£78.50) works electronically to gradually slow the turbine in high winds or near full charge situations, rather than using resistive dump loads.

The 914 is quiet in operation and quick to start generating in light winds. Well made, its heavy metal hub acts as a flywheel, giving it enough momentum to smooth out the pauses during brief lulls in the wind.

Verdict: Quiet and inexpensive, with a smart controller. Relatively low output

marlec.co.uk

RUTLAND 1200 £1,195.00

High rotation speeds and efficient alternator design results in plenty of raw power. Marlec’s latest smart HRDi charge controller (£155.95) continuously alters the rotation speed of the generator, slowing it down as the batteries become more charged. It also incorporates the latest Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) technology to optimise all the available energy produced and Pulse Width Modulation (PWM), which enables multi-stage charging to keep the batteries topped up. Other features include dual-battery bank control, an input for up to 250W of solar panels and an optional remote digital display.

Verdict: Powerful, well-made and with smart regulation. Has a wide rotation diameter

SILENTWIND 400 £1,291.33

The Silentwind is heavier than it first looks, mainly due to its high output, permanent magnet 420W alternator. Recent (2016) upgrades include a boost feature in the generator and a lower start speed thanks to its ‘low cogging’ design.

Available in 12V, 24V and 48V versions, its three-wire AC output connects directly to a recently upgraded smart charge controller with solar inputs, an LCD display, integral brake switch and Bluetooth connectivity so the user can monitor their battery status and charge from a mobile device or laptop. Furthermore, the new controller (£410.42) now consumes only 20mA itself, rather than the 100mA of the old model.

Verdict:   High power output and a nifty Bluetooth smart controller, but all at a price

technicalmarinesupplies.co.uk

SUPERWIND 350 £1,528.75

The SCR Marine charge controller option (£384) has two independent outputs, for start and service banks, although it does rely on the rather crude method of dumping any excess loads to two large resistors, which can get very hot if the device is left running in a gale.

Despite having a slightly lower output alternator than some, in field tests this device gave a very respectable performance in wind up to 15 knots, and provided serious amps in higher winds up to 28 knots.

Verdict: Light, well made, quiet and powerful, but expensive and reliant on dump load regulation

mactramarine.co.uk

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This Wind-Powered Super Sailboat Will Carry 7,000 Cars Across the Atlantic

The cargo ship of the future is coming.

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. Why Trust Us?

• Traditional cargo ships are a requirement of the global economy and account for 2 percent of energy-related carbon emissions.
• This sailboat uses vertical "airplane wings" and an algorithm to continuously maximize speed.

A wind-powered super sailboat could change how we ship cargo, reducing energy-related carbon emissions in a method still used by 90 percent of manufactured goods . The Wallenius Marine OceanBird can carry 7,000 cars at a time and is powered totally by wind.

🚢 You like badass boats. So do we. Let's nerd out over them together.

Cargo ships are a gigantic worldwide business, and freight lines have already made changes to use fewer fossil fuels. That includes slowing down, because freight ships already take long, steady journeys that can absorb some extra lead time. But a wind-powered alternative could even eventually increase speeds without putting more demand on the global fossil fuel infrastructure.

OceanBird has five “sails” that are more like airplane wings or helicopter rotors, using rushing air at different speeds to pull the ship forward. For now, it can reach 10 nautical miles per hour, or knots, and will make the trip across the Atlantic Ocean in 12 days compared to eight in a fossil fuel cargo ship.

ScienceAlert reports on the smart and gigantic sails:

“The retractable wing sails stand 80 metres (262 feet) tall, and will be controlled by algorithms that calculate exactly how to make the most efficient use of wind power out on the ocean. An auxiliary engine, running on clean fuel, will be available as a backup and for getting in and out of harbours.”

So, like a Prius and other hybrids, the ship will use a fuel engine to get going and then the most efficient energy to cruise. In addition, the development team has made changes to the shape of the ship’s hull and added robust computing power that calculates the best possible configuration to harness the most speed at any give time.

What results is a sleeker, smarter ship design that the company says could also be used to improve cruise ships—a distant-feeling thought in 2020’s COVID-19 shutdown, but something that will eventually come back into play. Overall, Wallenius Marine says it has cut emissions by 90 percent.

While the global cargo shipping industry has taken a variety of steps to reduce its fossil fuel emissions, the sheer size of the industry and ongoing demand means it still makes up about 2 percent of all global emissions. The OceanBird is strictly in the design phase for now, with a fully realized design next year and earliest possible production in 2024.

Wallenius Marine wants to drum up interest now, but it also hopes sharing its ideas will encourage others in the space to continue to innovate. Goods will always need to circulate around the world, making cargo shipping an industry where even small changes can have a tangible and immediate impact.

The Best Solar Panels for Your Buck

160W Monocrystalline Solar Panel

If you aren't really sure where to start, this solar panel is a failsafe option. It's relatively budget-friendly (solar panels can get expensive fast ) and it performs. It's made of PET, EVA and monocrystalline silicon, and it's anti-reflective and high transparency. It's also easy to use and compact in size, making it easy to store when not needed. 

DOKIO Monocrystalline Foldable Solar Panel

If you live somewhere with low light, you might be worried that solar panels aren't for you, but these actually perform excellently in low light conditions. The high conversion efficiency 100 watt PV panel can charge 12v /24v batteries, and it comes with a portable folding suitcase. This one is easy to take on-the-go with you if you're camping, and easy to store if you're using it at home in case of a power outage. 

Renogy 300 Watt Monocrystalline Solar Panel

If you want to really go all out, you can't go wrong with Renology's 10-piece, 300-watt solar panels. They're capable of withstanding high winds and snow loads, they're anti-reflective, and extremely versatile. These are ideal for residential or commercial rooftops, but they're compatible with a ground-mount as well. 

Renogy 100 Watts 12 Volts Monocrystalline Solar Starter Kit

Anyone new to solar panels should start with a good kit, like this one by Renology. You'll get everything you need in one, including an 100W solar panel, 30A PWM negative ground charge controller, MC4 connectors, a 8Ft 10 AWG tray cable, and mounting Z brackets for an RV or boat. It can fully charge a 50Ah Battery from 50% in 3 hours.

Caroline Delbert is a writer, avid reader, and contributing editor at Pop Mech. She's also an enthusiast of just about everything. Her favorite topics include nuclear energy, cosmology, math of everyday things, and the philosophy of it all. 

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Best Marine Wind Generator 2021

Getting your hands on a boat is only the first step towards becoming a true sailor. Once you’re comfortable with how your boat handles and operates, it’s time to start customizing it to your liking. Installing something like a marine wind generator can let you enjoy some of the amenities you’d only find onshore.

However, even budget marine generators can be relatively pricey compared to other, more minor fixtures. This means that a little bit of research can go a long way when it comes to saving you money and finding the right product will be sure to work. Today’s review guide will be based on finding the best marine wind generator .

We’ll look at six different turbine generators in this guide, each of which excels in its own way. After our reviews, we’ll also explore some of the key features to look for in a high-quality marine wind generator, and we’ll answer some frequently asked questions. For now, however, let’s get started with our reviews.

Best Marine Wind Generator

Our top pick: tesup master940 wind turbine kit, key points at a glance.

• Durable injection-molded fiberglass blades
• Lightweight aluminum body
• Turbine blades engineered for quiet operation
• Cooling fins help dissipate heat around the generator body
• Generates up to 900W of power

The Details

The best marine wind turbine is the TESUP Master940. As the name suggests, this model can produce over 900W of power, making it the most powerful turbine on this list. Sweet!

However, there are more reasons to buy this wind turbine than just its high level of power output. Here’s the power output curve:

This model has some of the best build quality we’ve seen in a consumer wind turbine. All of the Master940’s components have been built to be as strong and light as possible. This is evident when you take a look at the materials used in its construction, with fiberglass blades and a strong yet light aluminum body.

The Master940 is equipped with a few clever features that help keep it running smoothly and prevent long-term damage due to overspeed. Unlike other wind turbines, this one comes equipped with a load dump system consisting of resistors in the charge controller that improves the reliability of the Master940’s wiring and circuits.

This wind turbine system is also designed to cut down on the amount of maintenance that you have to perform, as it comes equipped with a charcoal-free sliding contact that won’t have to be topped up.

The Master940 is designed to be used in all environments, and it won’t fail at high or low temperatures because of its inbuilt resilience.

The aluminum housing has better thermal transfer characteristics, and the inclusion of fins helps generate wind-flow that dissipates the heat into the surrounding air.

This turbine’s only weaknesses are its high price point and its relatively complex setup process, but they’re both a small price to pay for the Master940’s impressive performance and quality. This the best marine wind turbine available.

Our Runner Up: 400W Lantern Vertical Wind Generator by Happybuy

• Double bearing design helps reduce vibration and noise
• Microprocessor control gets the best performance out of the turbine at all wind speeds
• The vertical turbine design offers omnidirectional performance in all wind conditions
• Effective at harnessing the turbulent wind in the wake of a boat’s superstructure

While our runner up wind generator may not look as traditional as some of our other top picks, there’s a reason why the Happybuy Lantern-style looks like that. The layout of the fan blades on this model is designed to keep the power output constant no matter which direction the wind is coming from.

The improved omnidirectional performance of this wind generator makes it ideal for use on boats, especially those with a more cluttered superstructure. If you only have room for your wind generator near the back of your boat, you’ll still be able to generate power using that disrupted windflow.

Along with its unique design, the Happybuy 400W lantern wind generator is easier to assemble than most of the competition. If you don’t have much experience working with wind generators, then you can get this model up and running on the same day that you receive it.

Keep in mind that this model is mainly designed for faster wind speeds, as you won’t get much power output at speeds below 25 mph. While it will start spinning at lower speeds, you simply won’t get much useful power out of it. If you’re looking for a relatively well-built unit with powder-coated components and the ability to operate in a variety of wind directions without adjustment, this model is a great fit.

Best Budget: Happybuy 400W Wind Turbine Generator

• Features a corrosion-resistant design with an aluminum housing and stainless steel fittings
• The magnetic circuit allows the generator to run at low wind speeds
• The automatic braking system prevents damage from high wind speeds
• 400W of power output

Compared to the previous model from Happybuy, this 400W wind generator features a more traditional design, and it’s one of the more affordable options on this list. Despite featuring such a low price point, this Happybuy wind turbine is surprisingly reliable, and that’s one of the most crucial features to look for in a budget turbine.

Here’s the power output information:

To further improve its long-term reliability, this Happybuy wind turbine is made out of corrosion-resistant materials that have further been treated with a coating to reduce damage from UV light and salt spray. This model’s durability also makes it more effective in gusty conditions where other models may even be damaged by high wind speed.

Keep in mind that this wind generator doesn’t come with a mounting pole, so you’ll either need to buy the official one separately or you’ll need to create your own. While you’ll have to get creative when you come up with a mounting solution, assembling the turbine itself is surprisingly easy, and you can even do it if you’re a beginner.

In case of overspeed, the Happybuy wind turbine is equipped with an automatic braking system that will prevent the components from being damaged. Overall, this model may not be the best-performing on this list but it offers much more than its competitors within the same price range.

• ♻[MAIN PARAMETER] ~ Rated Power: 400W ; Rated...
• ♻[CONTROLLER INTRODUCTION] ~ Model: FWS03/06-12...
• ♻[HIGH-QUALITY BLADE] ~ The blade material is...
• ♻[POWERFUL PERFORMANCE] ~ 3Phase AC PMG,...
• ♻[WIDE APPLICATION] ~ This wind turbine is...

Best for Ease of Installation: SHZOND 400W Wind Turbine Generator

• Max rpm of 800
• Fiberglass reinforced blades
• Comes with mounting hardware included
• 400W of rated power output

The SHZOND wind turbine generator may look like a pretty standard one at first glance, but it’s designed to be a perfect fit for customers who are new to marine turbines. To that effect, the SHZOND 400W turbine is designed to be assembled in less than an hour, and it’s remarkably easy to use once you have it built.

This is also one of the lightest wind turbines on our list, as the housing is made out of vinyl while the blades are made out of fiberglass. The only metal parts you’ll find on the SHZOND wind turbine include the nose cone and the stainless steel mounting hardware and screws that keep all of the parts together.

Compared to other wind turbines on this list, this model from SHZOND will start spinning at lower wind speeds, only requiring about 10 mph speeds to start generating power. Keep in mind that this model is relatively sensitive to rapidly shifting wind directions because of the flexible mounting, so you may have to anchor it in a particular direction if you don’t want it to spin out of control.

This model’s control unit is also equipped with an auto-shutdown feature, ensuring that you don’t overload the battery.

Despite being easy to assemble, this SHZOND wind turbine comes with relatively vague instructions, so you’ll have to rely on the pictograms and what other customers have said about the assembly process. Even though this may seem like a pretty major annoyance, the SHZOND wind turbine’s strengths more than make up for it.

• Well suited for the leisure sector, it is famous...
• Wind generator rated power: 400W;Rated Voltage:...
• Material of Wind Leaf: PBT;Start-up Wind Speed:...
• Human-friendly design wind turbine, easy to...
• Blades using reinforced glass fiber, helped with...

Best for Output Per Dollar: Automaxx Windmill 600W Wind Turbine Generator

• Weather-resistant construction and corrosion-resistant materials
• Features both automatic and manual braking systems
• 600W of power output
• Comes with a one-year warranty

This Automaxx wind turbine has a higher power output than many of its competitors at the same price point, so if you’re looking for something powerful that can provide good value for money, this is it. To make this model more suitable for use in marine environments, it is made out of corrosion-resistant materials.

This model has a maximum rated speed of 30 mph since it doesn’t feature a mechanical braking system, so it is more suitable for regions without extreme wind gusts. However, to make up for this, the Automaxx wind turbine has a relatively low cut-in speed, so you’ll have a broader band of wind speeds in which this model can operate.

The Automaxx turbine also swivels in a 360-degree arc so that it can be adjusted to match the wind direction. Unlike some of its competitors, it takes a lot for the wind to push the turbine out of alignment on its own, so you won’t have to worry about putting extra work into securing it so that it remains facing the wind.

The included charge controller features a wattage display and can easily be wired directly to your battery or battery bank. Here’s a basic wind turbine wiring diagram:

One of the main weaknesses of this model is that it uses only a magnetic braking system, and we would prefer it to be supplemented by a mechanical brake that could let it work in higher wind speeds.

• 【Effective Generation】Maximum power generation...
• 【Wide Range of Applications】 Marine-grade,...
• 【Environmentally Friendly】Take a stride...
• 【MPPT Charge Controller】Max power point...
• 【Easy Installation and Maintenance】We take...

Best Marine Wind Generator Buyer’s Guide

Marine wind generators are an excellent choice for sailboats that may not have a powerful enough generator to run all of the onboard electrical devices. However, they aren’t only made for sailboats, as some smaller motorboats may not have an efficient way of siphoning power from the engine for electrical implements.

Using a marine wind generator hooked up to a battery, you can run devices like your radio, onboard GPS, and you can even charge your phone. Marine wind generators are also a better choice than small generators or auxiliary power units since they’re smaller, quieter, and more ecologically friendly.

Important Features to Consider

Ease of use and ease of setup.

Wind turbines still require a certain level of knowledge on the part of the user, but as time goes by, they get easier to hook up and use. A wind turbine that’s designed to be as user-friendly as possible therefore overcomes one of the main hurdles that many buyers face when they consider purchasing them.

A marine turbine needs to be made out of suitable materials so that it doesn’t end up getting damaged by the elements while it’s mounted to your boat. Metals like aluminum and stainless steel won’t rust and therefore fail after a bit of exposure to water.

The material will also determine how heavy your wind turbine is. Too heavy of a turbine may adversely affect your boat’s performance and will certainly be more difficult to set up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do i need to wire my marine wind generator myself.

Yes, in the vast majority of cases, you’ll need to hook up the generator to the battery that you’re using to store the energy, so you’ll need to have a basic idea of what you’re doing to get the system running.

Can I supplement my marine wind generator with solar panels?

Yes, you can wire your marine solar panels into your energy generation system on your boat, even coupled with your wind turbine. In fact, some wind turbines are even designed to work with solar panels straight out of the factory, without much modification on your end.

Other Products We Looked At:

Marsrock small wind turbine 400w.

Aside from that, there are plenty of intelligent design features like the copper brackets in the blades that will prevent you from accidentally damaging them by tightening them too much. The charge controller on this wind turbine is also relatively intelligent, cutting down the speed of the blades so that the power output is consistent.

One of our favorite things about this wind turbine is that it’s a lot more affordable than many of its competitors, but it’s still reliable and features the same 400W power output. While this wind turbine is a solid choice, it doesn’t exactly stand out in any particular area, so it couldn’t match our top five.

• Copper brackets in the blades keep them from cracking when fastened to the hub
• The blades are made of plastic reinforced with carbon fiber

The Master940 is the best marine wind generator available, and its only major downside is that it’s so expensive. If you’re not willing to spend so much on your marine wind turbines, the Happybuy Vertical Wind generator is available for a more reasonable price and can generate power regardless of the direction the wind is coming from.

If you’re trying to save even more money, and you’d rather opt for a more traditional type of marine wind turbine, Happybuy’s other 400W wind turbine is cheap, easy to set up, and much more reliable than its competitors.

We hope that these reviews have given you a good idea of what to expect from these marine wind generators.

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The Silentwind wind generator is designed to charge batteries on sailing vessels by converting wind energy into electricity.

The generator has been developed and produced for use in marine environment. It can be used in various wind conditions: small, medium and high.

Silentwind is lightweight (6kg), built in aluminum alloy suitable for marine environment, corrosion protected, stainless steel shaft, waterproof sealed bearings.

The Silent Power Blades are produced in carbon fiber, hand-laminated, with great resistance and minimum noise emission, which is the great differentiator of the Silentwind.

The charge controller is external, hybrid (wind and solar energy), has multifunction display and integrated stop switch (electronic / manual).

The parameters can be adjusted directly in the controller or through the application that is available in IOS and Android. Among the available parameters are the brake module, which allows the maximum current adjustment, and the load cut-off voltage module, which regulates the maximum charge voltage of the batteries.

Silentwind starts charging with only 4kn wind, generating 50W at 14kn and 100W at 19kn. As maximum it generates 420W (Generators 12V) at 29kn.

The mast supports are developed for vibration absorption and consequent noise reduction.

For further information, contact us. We are available to assist you with your project.

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Blowin’ in the Wind: The Best Marine Wind Generators

Whether you're walking down a road, climbing a mountain or sailing on the sea (with a white dove, maybe), there's one constant: Wind. 

Bob Dylan may have had all sorts of other ideas in mind when he wrote "Blowin' in the Wind," but the idea stands. When the wind blows, power is supplied. The times, they are a-changin', and we boaters need power out on the water for motor batteries , stereos, marine electronics, lights, bilge pumping and what have you.

Sure, when you're in your marina slip, you can just hook up to power. But when you're out on the water, that's not exactly feasible. Plus, it's always good to do everything we can to save the environment, reduce our carbon footprint and what-not.

Today, we're going to discuss the best marine wind generators and turbines for boats to answer your power problems whether you're a leisure powerboater, a liveaboard sailor  or own the wooden schooner Water Pearl (that would be Bob's, of course). More Dylan references may or may not ensue.

What Is a Marine Wind Generator?

You know those wind turbines you see standing tall on land? Well, a marine wind generator is essentially the same thing. It's just smaller and attached to a boat (or a magic swirlin' ship).

Swirlin' ships aside, marine wind generators work by harnessing the kinetic energy of air, or to be exact, the wind. Once caught, the wind is converted to a rotational motion that turns an alternator, which then produces electrical energy. This energy can be used immediately or stored in batteries (12V or 24V) for later use. Voila, it really is magic!

Parts of a Marine Wind Generator

• Blades are those things on the end that turn (similar to the blades on a ceiling fan). They're connected to a shaft that turns with the blades.
• A tower or mast , usually about 9' tall, is the pole that attaches to the boat (like a sailboat mast) and holds the blades up in the air.
• Stay poles , usually two 8' poles, are used to hold up the mast. They're attached at an angle to keep the mast in place.
• Clamps, crimp rings and TY wraps are used to keep it all together.
• Control panels and electronics let you make sure everything is operating as it should.

Benefits of a Marine Wind Generator

• Economical (free energy!)  - This is probably the biggest reason to consider a marine wind generator. Once you've made the initial purchase cost, you've got all that free energy coming in. We boaters need all the free we can get.
• Relatively low maintenance  - Marine wind generators are pretty much an install it and forget it kind of thing. Like the song, it's just there blowin' in the wind.
• Environmentally friendly  - We all want to conserve energy, go green and save the environment (or we should if we really love the boating lifestyle like we say we do). Marine wind generators don't add to air or water pollution, and they don't emit greenhouse gases.

Disadvantages of a Marine Wind Generator

• Noise and vibration:  They can be quite noisy (especially when the wind is really kicking it up). You'll be on a rockin' boat whether you want to or not.
• No wind, no power:  This one is self-explanatory.
• Very high winds:  On the flip-side, marine wind generators can be damaged in very high winds. There are, of course, ways to avoid this problem. You can use a regulator or charge controller that senses the battery voltage and reacts in the appropriate manner. Some wind generators can change the pitch of each blade in response to the wind. Others have flexible blades that bend easier in the wind (this method, however, can cause even more noise).

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What to Consider When Choosing a Marine Wind Generator

• Decide how much power you'll need for things like the stereo, navigational electronics, refrigerator, lights, laptops and other devices.
• Where do you spend most of your time on your boat? Ocean or inland? You'll want to gauge the amount of wind generally found in that area.
• What are your normal cruising speeds? Obviously, any wind is good, but most marine wind generators don't provide much power below eight knots.
• What are the water and weather conditions in your normal navigational routes? You'll want to align your choice of wind generator with how rough or calm the water is, as well as the types of weather typically found. As an example, with higher wind speeds, you'll want a bigger blade sweep to get even more energy.
• Where do you want to put it on the boat? I've seen marine wind generators attached to the back of a sailboat, on a hardtop and at the very front of the boat. Take into consideration where it will be out of the way as far as foot traffic on the deck.
• Are there any noise restrictions? Remember when I said marine wind generators can be noisy? I wasn't kidding. Noise restrictions are a real concern in certain places: narrow inland waterways, residential communities and businesses.

Blowin' in the Wind: The Best Marine Wind Generators

The best marine wind generators provide power production and have high blade efficiency and reduced sound. There are a wide array of marine wind generators on the market. I've picked out a few that stood out to me.

Ista Breeze 500w 12V/24V Wind Generator

The Ista Breeze 500w provides a reliable source of energy in extreme conditions via its hybrid charge controller. It has a low thermal load, an aluminum powder-coated generator alternator case, stainless steel ball bearings and a front bearing with a friction-free sealing disc to prevent moisture , dust and debris.

Ista Breeze i-2000 48V Wind Generator

The maintenance-free aluminum Ista Breeze i-2000 has a maximum power of 2200w. It has durable and lightweight glass fiber reinforced plastic rotor blades, which also provides excellent stability.

High-strength aluminum housing has cooling fins. The sliding contact provides good current flow and no cable twisting.

Primus Wind Power Air X Marine Wind Turbine

With microprocessor technology and heavy-duty design, the Primus Wind Power delivers great performance and high wind protection. It's lightweight and has integrated power electronics for an easy installation. It produces 30 kWh of energy a month for high-wind marine use.

Primus Wind Power Air Silent X

Due to the enhanced carbon fiber blades, the Primus Wind Power Air Silent X provides increased power and more noise reduction than the standard Air-X.

It operates with a three-phase brushless permanent magnet alternator and microprocessor-controlled electronics.

Happybuy Wind Turbine Generator 400w

The Happybuy Wind Turbine Generator 400w features synthetic injection-molded high-strength plastic blades. Aerodynamic blades allow the rotor to run smoothly and quietly. It's great for use in high wind or in combination with solar panels.

Features include high-quality aluminum and stainless steel fittings, low start wind speed and a permanent magnet generator with low torque integrated automatic braking system. It also offers oxidation and corrosion resistance.

Happybuy Wind Turbine 300w

The Happy buy Wind Turbine 300w offers powerful performance in a unique lantern design. Its three-dimensional lantern-style design generates power at lower wind speeds while effectively regulating current and voltage. 

It has auto wind direction adjustment, a permanent low-torque magnet generator and high-strength plastic blades with resistance against UV rays and water and sand corrosion. Plus, it's just cool to look at.

Don't Think Twice: Power Your Boat With Wind

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What Ails Offshore Wind: Supply Chains, Ships and Interest Rates

Government officials and energy developers misjudged the difficulty of building huge clean energy projects in the United States, which has built very few of them.

Wind turbines near Block Island, R.I., owned by Orsted, a Danish company. The East Coast has long been considered a prime location for offshore wind projects because the water is relatively shallow. Credit... Chang W. Lee/The New York Times

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By Ivan Penn ,  Stanley Reed and Brad Plumer

• Dec. 11, 2023

A few years ago, interest in offshore wind energy was so strong that developers proposed spending tens of billions of dollars to plunk hundreds of turbines the size of skyscrapers in the Atlantic Ocean from Maine to Virginia.

But several of those projects have recently hit the skids after executives miscalculated the impact that the pandemic and rising interest rates would have on supply chains. The industry has found it much more difficult to manufacture, transport and erect wind turbines than it had expected. Just two dozen or so turbines have been installed in U.S. waters, compared with more than 6,000 in Europe, which has been building offshore wind farms for decades.

As a result, the cost of offshore wind energy will be higher than anticipated and its climate and economic benefits will, in some cases, arrive years later than expected.

Some wind farms may be delayed. Others may never be built.

To date, Eastern states have awarded contracts to build roughly two dozen offshore wind farms with 21 gigawatts of electric capacity, or enough to meet the needs of more than six million homes. But developers have canceled or asked to renegotiate rates for nearly half that capacity. Analysts are downgrading expectations: About 15 gigawatts of offshore wind will be installed by 2030, according to BloombergNEF, a research arm of Michael Bloomberg’s financial data and information company. That’s about one-third lower than what it had expected as recently as June. Europe has already installed about 32 gigawatts of offshore wind capacity.

Orsted, a Danish company that has built around two dozen offshore wind farms, mostly in Europe, has canceled two giant arrays planned for waters off New Jersey and is reconsidering two more intended to serve New York and Maryland. The company said it would be writing off as much as $5.6 billion. BP, which paid $1.1 billion for a 50 percent stake in the Norwegian energy company Equinor’s U.S. offshore wind portfolio in 2020, recently wrote off $540 million of its investment.

States like New York and Massachusetts are scrambling to save projects — and appear to be acknowledging that they will need to pay higher prices for the electricity generated by offshore turbines than they had expected.

“The U.S. offshore wind market is still in its infancy, and some states might have been trying to run before they could walk,” said Atin Jain, a senior associate at BloombergNEF. “Now they’re getting more realistic about the challenges facing developers, and that’s going to help in the long run.”

The East Coast has long been considered a prime location for offshore wind. Much like those in the North Sea, its waters are relatively shallow, ideal for turbines. Northeastern states have also set ambitious renewable energy goals to tackle climate change, but it is often expensive and difficult to transport wind or solar power to dense coastal cities and suburbs.

The lack of other viable options for cleaning up electric grids in the Northeast explains why none of the states, nor President Biden, have given up on their lofty goals for offshore wind.

In an interview, Ali Zaidi, Mr. Biden’s national climate adviser, pointed to the large offshore projects underway in Massachusetts , New York and Virginia , noting that the industry had grown rapidly from a standing start three years ago. The administration plans to complete federal reviews for at least 16 offshore wind farms by 2025, each capable of powering hundreds of thousands of homes.

“There are projects that are facing turbulence, and that’s not trivial,” Mr. Zaidi said. “But it’s not enough to take us off course from advancing significant progress.”

Energy executives say the industry is learning from its mistakes and making investments that should pay off in the coming years. Dominion Energy, a large utility based in Virginia, is moving ahead with a massive wind farm and is spending $625 million on the first U.S.-built ship capable of hauling the more than 300-foot-long blades and other components for wind turbines out to sea.

“We needed to have confidence in our schedule,” said Robert Blue, Dominion’s chief executive. “One way to have confidence is to have a vessel,” he added.

‘The World Looked Totally Different’

Orsted, the world’s leading offshore wind developer, gained traction in the United States by buying a Rhode Island company called Deepwater Wind for $510 million in 2018. Deepwater had the only operating U.S. offshore wind farm and owned a portfolio of proposed projects.

It was a heady time. Developers were eager to crack a new market and they rushed to sign contracts to provide electricity from offshore arrays under development at rates that assumed little or no inflation. They did not expect a lot of turmoil.

That turned out to be a bad bet. Under former President Donald J. Trump, a longstanding critic of wind turbines, the federal government held up permits. Then the pandemic wrecked supply chains, making parts more expensive. Later, the Federal Reserve sharply raised interest rates to tame inflation, driving up borrowing costs.

Now companies were stuck with the prospect of building multibillion-dollar projects to supply power at prices that no longer made sense.

“The world looked totally different,” Mads Nipper, Orsted’s chief executive, said last month, speaking of 2018 and 2019, when the company won a contract to build the first of the two New Jersey projects, Ocean Wind 1, that it has since scrapped.

A final blow, Mr. Nipper said, came in the past few months when it became clear that a ship that the company had booked to install the foundations that anchor the huge turbines to the sea bottom in 2024 would not arrive on time. This snafu threatened potentially huge cost increases.

Instead, the company walked away, but it had already run up huge losses.

“I am very doubtful that they will ever recover to what we thought” was ahead two or three years ago, said Anders Schelde, the chief financial officer of AkademikerPension, a Danish pension fund.

Like other companies, Orsted is now focusing on its more promising U.S. deals while trying to renegotiate or shelve others.

“The developers are going to have to choose which of the projects are viable and which are not and proceed accordingly,” said Eamon Nolan, a partner at the law firm Vinson & Elkins who specializes in energy.

Orsted recently began producing electricity for Long Island from a modest farm called South Fork Wind , and the company moving ahead with developing Revolution Wind, a $4 billion project that will provide power to Rhode Island and Connecticut. But the company is still deciding how to proceed with a different project in New York called Sunrise Wind, which may no longer be economically viable under its previous contract.

Lawmakers are also trying to salvage projects. Massachusetts and Connecticut now allow contracts for new offshore wind projects to be adjusted for any inflation that occurs before construction starts.

States are also bracing for higher prices. At an auction held by New York in October, the three winning companies offered to sell power to utilities at rates that were roughly one-third higher than earlier awards.

Gov. Kathy Hochul of New York, a Democrat, also announced another expedited auction for offshore wind next year, a move that could allow developers of four troubled projects, including Sunrise Wind, to rebid at higher power prices.

“It’s not like people have said, ‘We are abandoning these auctions,’” said Deepa Venkateswaran, an analyst at Bernstein, a research firm. “But they are demanding much higher prices, demanding much higher protection.”

The industry also faces a chicken-or-egg problem: One reason that offshore wind projects are expensive is that the United States lacks a robust domestic supply chain. But manufacturers cannot justify building large factories if they don’t know whether there will be enough demand.

“When there are a lot of project cancellations, that weakens the case for domestic manufacturing,” said Josh Irwin, senior vice president of offshore sales at Vestas, a Danish company that is the world’s largest turbine manufacturer. “We’re still in wait-and-see mode.”

Investing for the Future

Dominion is trying to remove some of the uncertainty with its new ship, Charybdis, which is named for a mythical Greek sea monster. Though it is months behind schedule and will cost the utility about 25 percent more than expected, executives said the 472-foot-long vessel would ultimately save the company time and money.

That’s because a longstanding federal law, the Jones Act, requires that only domestically built, owned and staffed ships can operate in U.S. waters.

“It won’t solve all the problems but it is a start to show a pathway to U.S.-built vessels,” said Lars T. Pedersen, chief executive of Vineyard Offshore, which is developing projects off Massachusetts, New York and California .

The Charybdis will be able to carry four to eight wind turbine components at once, depending on the size of the pieces. The ship’s crane can lift 2,200 tons — roughly the weight of six Boeing 747 jets.

Dominion said the ship would allow it to set up one turbine a day once installations began on the company’s 176-turbine project. That would be a big improvement from a pilot project Dominion undertook in 2020, when the company spent a year installing two offshore turbines. Because of the Jones Act, the company used European ships that it operated from a port in Nova Scotia, more than 800 miles away, slowing the project.

That experience helped convince Dominion executives that they needed a Jones Act-compliant ship that it could run from U.S. ports.

The Charybdis, which is being built in Brownsville, Texas, is about 70 percent complete, and Dominion expects to have it available for Orsted’s Revolution Wind project, near the Connecticut coast. The ship would then move to Dominion’s project, which the company hopes to complete by the end of 2026.

“We’re not trying to set records,” said Mr. Blue, Dominion’s chief executive. “What we are trying to do is deliver reliable, affordable and increasingly clean energy.”

Ivan Penn is a reporter based in Los Angeles and covers the energy industry. His work has included reporting on clean energy, failures in the electric grid and the economics of utility services. More about Ivan Penn

Stanley Reed reports on energy, the environment and the Middle East from London. He has been a journalist for more than four decades. More about Stanley Reed

Brad Plumer is a Times reporter who covers technology and policy efforts to address global warming. More about Brad Plumer

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Offshore Wind and Right Whales Can Coexist. Here’s How. 

Seven steps for keeping endangered whales safe while building vital clean energy infrastructure..

June 13, 2024  |   Sarah White

With sea levels and temperatures rising, it is critical that we develop New England’s vast renewable wind energy resources to reduce our use of fossil fuels. With only around 360 North Atlantic right whales left on earth, it is also critical that we safeguard these majestic creatures from harm. With vulnerable right whales swimming through many of the areas where developers could construct wind turbines, can we accomplish both goals?

In a word: Yes! In fact, if we proceed carefully and responsibly, we can develop offshore wind projects in ways that minimize risks and could benefit the marine environment in the long term.

That said, wind turbines could harm right whales if developers don’t plan and build them responsibly. That’s why we’ve developed guidelines for building the offshore wind infrastructure that we desperately need while safeguarding a critically endangered species that can’t afford to lose a single whale.

Here are seven guidelines for how right whales and offshore wind can share the sea:  

1. Choose the right location

Scientists have documented specific locations where right whales like to gather for feeding, migrating, and breeding. Developers should exclude these areas from any plans for offshore wind. While it’s impossible to avoid all potential interactions between right whales and offshore wind project s, not build ing these structures in the whales’ favorite turf is a great start.  

2. Choose the right timing

Picking the right time of year and of day for construction is critical for protecting right whales. Offshore wind developers should use the best available data to determine what seasons right whales will most likely frequent an area and avoid harmful construction activities during those times. They should also limit construction to daylight hours when observers can more easily spot whales.  

This is vital because construction can produce noise with harmful effects on right whales. Speaking of which …

3. Minimize underwater noise

The construction process for offshore wind turbines can make enough noise to throw off a whale’s ability to navigate and communicate. These noises can drive right whales from their best feeding grounds. This can even lead to right whale mothers losing contact with calves who depend on them for survival. 

Luckily, offshore wind developers can use tools and tactics to minimize “noise pollution.” For example, double bubble curtains, in addition to having a very fun name, can block significant amounts of underwater noise. Adopting these and other emerging technologies will minimize construction’s impact on right whales.  

4. Monitor for whales

Technologies and techniques for spotting and tracking right whales are also improving, and offshore wind developers should take full advantage of them. Trained human observers can spot nearby whales. Underwater acoustic monitoring devices, if used for 24 hours ahead of time, detect around 75% of right whales in the area. Aerial surveys can also pick up on whales near the surface.

None of these are perfect, but with these tools in use, offshore wind developers can more easily halt construction before it can harm their aquatic neighbors.  

5. Set speed limits

Every boat and ship traveling to and from port, and in wind energy project areas, should stick to a speed limit of 10 knots or less. This includes vessels used for offshore wind construction and maintenance. Those low speeds improve the odds that boat captains will be able to spot whales and avoid collisions, which can be catastrophic for both whales and boaters. If a collision does take place, slower speeds equal less damage for both vessels and whales.

A commonsense speed limit keeps everyone safer on the water, just like it does on land.  

6. Contribute to long-term research and monitoring

Offshore wind in New England is still in the exciting early stages . That means that we have an enormous opportunity to gather data that will help inform and shape future projects. If developers fund and coordinate with marine expert s and make their findings public, we can improve future projects and make the ocean safer for everyone using it.

7. Don’t get derailed by disinformation

Finally, a lesson we could all learn from: Don’t fall for the disinformation! Big Oil and other special interest groups are hard at work spreading false information about how offshore wind is killing whales. But there’s no evidence that offshore wind activities have killed a single whale. Fossil fuel interests are concerned about keeping their oil and their profits flowing, not the fate of North Atlantic right whales.  

We know what’s killing right whales: collisions with ships and boats and entanglements in fishing gear. There’s never been a documented case of anything else killing an adult right whale in modern day. Fearmongering about wind turbines is a pointless diversion.    

These steps will allow right whales and offshore wind to share the sea as safely as possible. As the first region to fully embrace offshore wind, New England is writing the handbook for how to harness this natural resource responsibly. By taking ocean health into account as we plan, build, and operate offshore wind farms, we can create a gold standard for protecting our precious marine life while successfully ending our dependence on dangerous fossil fuels.  

Before you go... CLF is working every day to create real, systemic change for New England’s environment. And we can’t solve these big problems without people like you. Will you be a part of this movement by considering a contribution today? If everyone reading our blog gave just $10, we’d have enough money to fund our legal teams for the next year.

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Offshore wind isn’t a partisan issue. This is how real NJ people will be affected

3-minute read.

Much has been written and reported about the plans to build offshore wind turbine developments off the East Coast of the United States. Proponents argue that clean energy is better for the environment and more affordable, that in areas where these systems will operate they will generate jobs, and that other countries have already installed offshore wind turbines. Opponents argue that the turbine developments will affect the economy of shore communities, commercial and recreational fishing, marine mammals and birds, public safety and national security. Some proponents have even gone so far as to mislabel and attack the opponents of offshore wind as partisan and backed by oil companies, but that couldn’t be further from the truth.

In reality, the rush to set up offshore wind has been advanced only by partisan politics and internationally backed lobbying efforts without studying the impact these turbines will have in their current planned placement, in many cases less than 15 miles from our shores.

Our legislators must take the time to understand the implications of what thousands of turbines will do to our oceans, marine mammals, national security, navigation, commercial and recreational fishing and coastal economies before moving forward .

The thousands of turbines planned for the shores of Massachusetts and New Jersey should not be the case studies to learn the good, the bad and the ugly of offshore wind. Those who live in coastal communities who have taken the time to learn the facts about offshore wind do not want these turbines built in the oceans. In fact, in February, 50 coastal mayors signed on to a letter calling for a moratorium on these developments.

Current plans for the next decade alone include building 3,411 turbines and 9,874 miles of cable directly in the migration path of the critically endangered North Atlantic right whale, a species on the brink of extinction with only an estimated 350 left in the world. If the NARW does survive the multi-year construction of the turbines, will it be able to survive the noise these thousands of turbines will generate while in operation? 

The currently slated turbines and cables are planned to be built across 2.4 million acres of federally managed ocean, and there are other plans to lease an additional 1.7 million acres, according to a recent federal Bureau of Ocean Energy Management “Vineyard Wind” Offshore Wind Energy Project draft environmental impact statement. One planned wind energy area off the coast of Rhode Island is larger than the state itself.

Make no mistake: Local tourism economies are going to be harmed. A University of Delaware study, sponsored by the BOEM, shows that 50% of those renting oceanfront homes will not return if they can see turbines from their rentals. This will drive property values to decrease in shore communities and cause an eroding of communities’ tax bases. In New Jersey’s Cape May County alone, more than $1.1 billion will be lost in tourism revenue , and that will have a devastating impact on food service, hospitality, retail, rental housing and other segments of the county’s local economy.

The proposed offshore wind projects also present a tremendous threat to the commercial fishing industry. Many of the boats used for commercial fishing are mobile bottom trawl vessels, which will be unable to safely operate their equipment in close proximity to turbines. Because of the proposed placement of these turbines, the systems will stifle the industry and likely adjust the supply and demand calculations, raising the cost of seafood. 

Earlier: Frolicking whale delights beachgoers at Jersey Shore

Not only is the commercial fishing industry losing fishing grounds, but all boats are going to lose the ability to navigate safely. Offshore wind turbines cause radar interference of all kinds, including marine, defense, terminal and high-frequency radar, to name just a few. The loss of reliable marine vessel radar for commercial and recreational boats will make safe transit impossible in or near wind turbines, especially in the dark, fog or inclement weather. A high-frequency radar that is used by the United States Coast Guard for search and rescue operations and by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration for oil spill response will also be knocked out due to offshore wind turbines. Because of the proposed development, New York’s and New Jersey’s coasts will lose virtually all of this vital radar coverage, according to BOEM’s Outer Continental Shelf Renewable Energy Leases Map Book and BOEM’s Central Atlantic plan.

The promise of adding jobs also appears elusive. Atlantic Shores, the developer of one of the three initially planned projects off the coast of New Jersey, said on its website that its project will generate more than 22,000 jobs. In reality, according to the state’s Board of Public Utilities, no local jobs will be created during the initial construction phases, and only potentially 88 new jobs will be created in the long term. That figure — 88 jobs — pales in comparison with the hundreds, if not thousands, of jobs that will be lost as vacationers flee New Jersey and other Eastern Seaboard states with offshore wind projects toward coastal communities that don’t have 3,411 — or more — wind turbines less than 15 miles off the coast.

To be clear, many opponents of current offshore wind plans aren’t totally against the responsible development of offshore alternative energy sources. What we are concerned about is the irresponsible development of offshore wind to meet random energy goals set forth by both the federal government and various states.

Without proper research and analysis, we wouldn’t put 1,000-foot-tall turbines in the Grand Canyon or on sacred Native American ground. In New Jersey and its coastal communities, our shores are our sacred space for thriving marine life and a respite for any visitor needing a moment in the peace of the ocean environment. These turbines, by BOEM's own admission in projection documents, will not have any effect on climate change. But they sure will negatively affect the peace and beauty of the eastern shores of every state that is foolish enough to build these unproven and ineffective industrial power plants in our delicate marine environment.

David Shanker serves as the New Jersey spokesperson for Save Right Whales. He has spent every summer since he was 10 years old on the Jersey Shore. He learned to sail at an early age, was scuba-certified at 16 and was an ocean lifeguard for Long Beach Township during his high school and college summers. He is a 50-plus-year member and past commodore of the Brant Beach Yacht Club and the current president of the Brant Beach Sailing Foundation.

Here’s how Dominion’s wind turbines will look from the Virginia Beach shore

V IRGINIA BEACH — For more than 200 years, the view from one of the country’s oldest lighthouses has been the vast ocean stretching beyond the horizon.

But that will soon change. A line of turbine blades will be visible in the far distance from the old Cape Henry Lighthouse when Dominion Energy builds a wind farm 27 miles off the Virginia Beach coast.

“When you climb to the top of the lighthouse you’ll see the turbines probably better than anywhere,” said Will Glasco, chief operating officer for Preservation Virginia, a nonprofit organization that operates the 1792 landmark. “This viewshed is forever changed.”

Images created by environmental consultant Tetra Tech for Dominion Energy simulate how much of the $9.8 billion Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind project will be seen from onshore. The simulated images were included among hundreds of pages of documents and reports Dominion submitted to the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management in September as  part of the federal review process .

While the visibility of the 800-foot-tall turbines will vary by location, time of day and weather, the images show they will be most visible from the lighthouse, Virginia Beach’s resort area and other points south. One image depicts the view from 17th Street Park on a summer day where a long line of pointy turbine blades can be seen on the horizon.

“At that distance, the curvature of the Earth will make it difficult to see the turbines clearly from shore,” Jeremy Slayton, a Dominion Energy spokesperson, wrote in an email. “However, the turbines could be more visible at higher elevations and at night due to necessary safety features, such as navigational lighting.”

Two 6-megawatt pilot turbines were installed in 2020. They are 200 feet shorter than the planned 14-megawatt turbines and can been seen from shore on a clear day.

“They are difficult to see, and it may require binoculars to see them,” Slayton wrote. “You can find them by first finding the Chesapeake Lighthouse, which is 12 miles offshore. Then look slightly to the right and the turbines will be another 15 miles farther out.”

The turbine towers will be painted light gray but the photo simulations depict them in white and show roughly 30 more than are planned, Slayton said. Navigational safety lights will  activate only when there are airplanes around the turbines, he said.

Dominion will begin work in May to install an additional 174 turbines, which are anticipated to generate enough energy to power up to 660,000 homes. The project will help avoid carbon emissions equivalent of removing one million cars off the road each year, according to the company. It’s scheduled to be completed in 2026.

The City Council did not review the images before approving a viewshed compensation package for historic resources impacted by the wind project, according to Vice Mayor Rosemary Wilson and member Worth Remick, who represent districts along Virginia Beach’s coastline.

But members of the city’s planning department and council-appointed historic commission looked at them as they determined which historic sites would be affected, said Sharon Prescott, commission chair.

“Our concern was visual impact on historic resources,” said Prescott. “You’re not going to make the windfarm go away, but you can continue to try to preserve resources.”

Glasco saw them as well. Preservation Virginia prepared its own requests for compensation separate from the city’s.

The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management determined the construction, installation, operations, and maintenance of the wind turbine project has the potential to adversely affect 23 Virginia Beach historic properties and is subject to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, which requires mitigation funding.

Virginia Beach will receive $290,000 to mitigate “adverse visual effects,” while the lighthouse secured $650,000.

“The amount was determined relative to the agreed upon projects that will be funded,” Mark Reed, the city’s historic preservation planner, wrote in an email. “City staff reviewed the proposed funding and determined it to be sufficient based upon our experience with similar projects.”

The money provided by Dominion Energy will fund maintenance, educational and preservation projects associated with the historic sites. Cultural resource consultants provided funding estimates to BOEM and Dominion Energy.

Dominion Energy officials have publicly shared details about the wind project with the council, but most of those presentations and subsequent discussions centered around city easements needed for transmission cables, not viewshed issues. Reed said the council did not request additional information about the visual effects.

The city’s historic commission has reviewed mitigation for cellular towers with antennas, but past Dominion Energy projects in Virginia Beach haven’t required Section 106 review. That only occurs when there is a federal undertaking, which is the case with the offshore wind farm, Reed said.

Preservation Virginia has previous experience with compensation from Dominion Energy for historic Jamestown when the company built towers and a high-voltage transmission line across the James River. The power company paid $90 million to reduce the impact of the project on environmental resources and historic sites in 2017.

“We put out a number and did some negotiation,” Glasco said about the compensation for the wind project.

Related Articles

• Environment | Wind turbine farm could be visible from shore, so Dominion will compensate Virginia Beach
• Environment | Construction of Dominion wind turbine project in Croatan stressing out Virginia Beach residents
• Environment | State senator seeks to lease land to Dominion for wind turbine project; ethics council OKs move
• Environment | Dominion offers Virginia Beach $19 million for offshore wind transmission easements
• Environment | Lawsuit to stop Virginia Beach offshore wind farm claims project is a danger to whales

The money will be used for renovations to the lighthouse visitors center and educational programs.

The renderings are circulating online. John Knight, a Croatan resident, took a deep dive into Dominion Energy’s environmental impact statement and found them. He shared an image from 17th Street on a Facebook group this week.

“Who in the world wants to go to the beach and look at that!” Knight wrote in the online post.

Remick said he has concerns about the views from sites within his district which includes the North End and part of the resort area.

Wilson has become a sounding board for Croatan residents, including Knight, who are dealing with noise from construction of the wind energy transmission cables landing near their houses.

When asked if she thought Virginia Beach is receiving enough compensation for the impact of the project, Wilson, who lives in an Oceanfront condominium, said “probably not” — but she still supports it.

“It’s going to be good for economic development,” Wilson said. “It’s good for the environment in the long run.”

Stacy Parker, 757-222-5125, [email protected]

©2024 The Virginian-Pilot. Visit pilotonline.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

FAA to study height of Empire Wind turbines, which exceed obstruction standards

An illustration of a wind installation vessel. Credit: Maersk Supply Service

A division of the Federal Aviation Administration has launched a study of the Empire Wind offshore wind farm planned for 14 miles off the coast of Long Beach, noting that planned turbines exceed FAA obstruction standards by 453 feet.

Empire Wind, which called the review an “anticipated next step” in the project, has already received key state and federal approvals, and last week announced securing a contract with New York State.

In a May 28 letter, the FAA’s Obstruction Evaluation Group wrote to project developer Equinor to say it had begun an aeronautical study of the project. The letter noted the top of the turbines' blades will stand at 952 feet above sea level.

“At a height greater than 499 feet above ground level, the proposed wind farm would extend into airspace normally used for visual-flight-rule en-route flight and may be located within 2 statute miles of a potential visual-flight-rule route as defined by FAA order,” the notice states. The turbines within that 2-mile limit “would have an adverse effect upon visual flight rule air navigation.”

The letter is part of an FAA process for review of wind turbines and other structures that could impact certain flight routes, given their height and proximity to airports. Empire is around 18 miles from JFK International Airport. Of the more than a dozen federally sited offshore projects, at least one other, Atlantic Shores Offshore Wind, planned for New Jersey, received a similar letter on June 6, noting that it’s 1,047-foot planned structures exceeded the obstruction standard by 548 feet.

The Empire letter says further study is needed to determine whether the turbines “would affect a significant volume of … aircraft resulting in a substantial adverse effect on visual-flight-rule en-route traffic.” 

A spokesman for Equinor, David Schoetz, called the letter part of the FAA process that was begun “years ago,” and said the company had anticipated it. Turbines above the height standard in the FAA’s review area constitute a “very small percentage” of Empire Wind 1’s 54 turbines, and are in the northwest section of the proposed array.

“This is the anticipated next step in a FAA review that began several years ago,” Schoetz said in an email. “The maximum height of the Empire Wind 1 turbines has been consistent throughout the permitting process and we continue to work with aviation officials to ensure safety and compliance.”

Later Thursday evening, Schoetz said Equinor believes the FAA review applies to a single wind turbine. An FAA spokesman was not available to confirm that and did not respond to Newsday questions about the review and its potential implications on the project.

A spokeswoman for the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, which administers the approval process for offshore wind farms, declined to comment, as did New York State’s Energy Research and Development Authority, which issued the contract.

A Long Beach-based group that opposes the Empire Wind projects called the letter’s findings “very alarming.”

“I hope it’s not going to get rubber stamped,” said Marjorie Wiederhold Monahan of Protect Our Coast-Long Island, NY, who said the group intends to weigh in heavily during the FAA review process.  

Mark Harrington, a Newsday reporter since 1999, covers energy, wineries, Indian affairs and fisheries.

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