Although mechanical windmills still provide a sensible, low-cost option for pumping water, farmers and ranchers are finding that small wind electric water pumping systems can be more cost effective and versatile.

 

Small wind electric systems can pump twice the water volume for the same initial investment. And while mechanical windmills must be placed directly above the well, wind-electric pumping systems can be placed where the wind resource is the best.

 

Typically, 1- to 10-kilowatt wind turbines are used for pumping water. A small wind turbine manufacturer can help you size and design the system, based on the energy output and quantity of water you'll need, the depth of the well, and your wind resource. System design also includes the wind turbine tower and the balance-of-system parts.