Stanton W. Mead Education and Visitor Center
Wind & Solar Photovoltaic Electricity
Electricity is generated by a 10kW wind-turbine, mounted on a 120 foot tower to each the higher wind speeds present above trees and other landscape features. It is generated as "alternating" or AC current by an alternator and is connected to the building's electrical system. Eighteen photovoltaic panels, mounted on a 2.3kW tracking array that follows the sun, convert sunlight to electricity in the form of "direct" or DC current. An inverter converts the DC to AC for conventional use. excess electricity generated on-site is sold to the local utility at the same rate it is purchased from the utility when needed.
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Photo courtesy of Thomas Brown, Architect