Residential Small Wind Rebate Program

Summary

As of 12/7/2010, funding for this program is fully reserved. Applications received after 12/7/2010 will be placed on a waiting list in case funding becomes available.

The Minnesota Office of Energy Security (OES) is offering rebates to offset the up-front cost of installing small wind energy generation devices at existing primary residences in Minnesota. Systems are limited to a maximum rated capacity of 35 kilowatts (kW) at a wind speed of 24.6 mph. Qualifying systems are eligible for a rebate of 35% of installed system costs up to a maximum rebate of $10,000 and incentive amounts may not exceed the total cost of the system minus the cost of any federal, utility, or other incentives. Although the program opened in May 2010, systems installed on or after July 1, 2009 that meet the program requirements are eligible for incentives. For systems beginning construction after April 30, 2010, participants must submit an application to reserve funding prior to installing the system. The system must be installed within 180 days of receiving a reservation confirmation in order to qualify for a rebate.

Both grid-connected and off-grid systems are eligible for incentives. However, system eligibility is limited to a list of specific wind turbine models contained in the program application and a variety of additional equipment, installation, and warranty requirements apply to systems and major components. Notably, applicants must demonstrate that the site wind resource is sufficient for wind generation (minimum 12 mph at hub height) and tower heights must be at least 80 feet unless the applicant can demonstrate that the minimum wind speed is available at a lower height. This requirement can be met using the Minnesota Wind Verification Tool on the program web site, or through a site assessment report from a Midwest Renewable Energy Association (MREA) certified site assessor. The OES also suggests that prospective participants explore options for improving the energy efficiency of their home prior to installing a wind energy system.

A total of $500,000 is available under this program, funded from State Energy Program (SEP) funds under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). Applications will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis until available funding is exhausted. Please see the program web site and rebate application for additional details.