Wisconsin tech school begins renewable energy project

An $80,000 grant from the Wisconsin Focus on Energy Renewable Energy program allowed Nicolet Area Technical College in Rhinelander, Wis., to recently install a 10kW, 120-ft wind turbine on its campus. The turbine is part of the school’s EcoVillage project, which will include renewable energy systems and energy efficient structures for residential and institutional use.

Along with a photovoltaic system yet to be installed, the wind turbine will generate electricity for the college, and both systems will be connected to the Wisconsin Public Service Corp. power grid. Excess energy will be sold back to the utility.

The project also calls for the construction of a home with zero net annual utility power consumption. The home will get its energy from wind turbine and solar panels.