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SOUTH WEBER — The City of South Weber is considering an ordinance that would allow homeowners to put wind turbines on their property. One man who has already gained permission said he's certain his investment will pay off.
Scott Casas, who lives a few blocks west of the mouth of the Weber Canyon, said wind is a constant at his house. It blows almost every day from about 10 p.m. to 10 a.m., he said.
"It's one of the windiest areas of the state," Casas said.
He said it cost him about $4,000 to install a turbine kit on his garage, and about three months to get it approved by the city.
"The wind turbine produces 1.5 kilowatts per hour," Casas said. "Best thing about it is the ... turbine makes the electric meter run backwards."
The machine also runs quiet, producing less noise than that coming from I-84 near the back of Casus' house.
He's hopeful that, over time, wind will be seen as a more viable alternative energy source for more homeowners, much like solar panels.
"If it had been too costly, I wouldn't have done it. But I believe that as prices rise, and as the wind turbine continues to spin, it will only pay for itself over time," Casas said.
The ordinance being considered by South Weber city leaders would allow more private wind turbines. It's still in the early stages, but city council members got a first look at the proposal a few weeks ago.
Casas has also worked with developers who are researching the possibility of a commercial wind farm closer to Weber Canyon. City leaders said they've looked at that possibility too, although one council member said some research shows there may not be quite enough wind there to make it worthwhile.
As for Casas, he's confident his turbine will pay for itself within five years.
