Tip-Up Time At The
Eco-Domes
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Here at the Eco-Domes, near Brainerd, MN, conservation technologies are put to the test daily in a real-life environment for monitoring, study and distribution of results. Interested visitors, students, and potential investors get hands-on experience and applicable knowledge in sustainable living and the means to acquire those technologies.
The Eco-Domes had dreamed of installing a 20 kilowatt wind turbine as an addition to the conservation campus for quite a while. When they decided to buy one, it was no surprise that WERC would be the installer of a Jacobs turbine.
This fall, WERC installed a Jacobs 31-20 20 kilowatt wind turbine system on a 120 foot lattice tower on the premises. The turbine will be able to produce over 10,000 kilowatt hours per year at this location and elevation, so it's not a great site, but it will allow us to be producing more electricity than we use.
The Jacobs® wind
turbines are considered by many to be the "Cadillac" of
the small wind turbine industry.
The Jacobs name is the oldest and best
established company in the field of wind energy.
The Jacobs tower was also installed with EnergyTraker™ monitoring and data-logging hardware (pictured at left). This the only truly user-friendly, comprehensive, self-contained system developed by data logging professionals by which users can measure and manage their renewable energy system for the optimum return on their investment. The system will allow the Eco-Domes to track production for research and also a hands-on example for anyone interested in renewable energy technologies. For more information on EnergyTraker Click Here.
WERC applied for and was successful in being awarded a USDA grant this summer. Click here
 Another addition to the domes came in the form of a Air-X 12 volt wind turbine (pictured at right) which was installed on a 25 foot monopole at the driveway entry. Our new sign is lit up by the Air-X.
There are other renewable energy sources on location. Both a 3000 watt Whisper wind turbine and a 2350 watt solar (pv) array have been in service and producing energy for over 10 years.
Both open and closed loop geothermal systems give our heat and air-conditioning.
Over all, the Eco-Domes is a totally sustainable center.
Below shows the process from chalk on the ground to high-in-the-sky wind harvesting.
To tour the facilities call 218-764-2321 |
