• Grants may help with the costs of installing a personal wind turbine.waiting for wind image by rlat from Fotolia.com
  
  The need for alternatives to fossil fuels coincides with increased demand for products such as personal wind turbines. Both government and private institutions offer grants to help with the cost of wind turbines. Understanding the specifics of these grants, such as who is eligible, where and how to apply, and how much money is available, is important for anyone wishing to obtain a grant.
  
  

Rural Energy For America Program

• Rural Energy For America Program (REAP) grants are available for rural small business owners, farmers and ranchers who demonstrate financial need. Wind turbine projects producing energy for any use are eligible. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) REAP website, awards cover up to 25 percent of project costs, with a minimum of $2,500 and a maximum of $500,000. Construction must begin before the end of 2010. Contact your USDA Rural Development State Office to apply.
  
  

State Wind Turbine Grants

• The online Database of State Incentives for State Renewables & Efficiency is an excellent source of state grant information. Check this often for incentives in your state.
  
  Availability of state grants varies widely, and funding often runs short. This makes it imperative to apply as soon as possible. An example is The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity grants, which take the form of rebates of up to 30 percent of the total project cost, with a maximum rebate of $50,000. Funds for 2010 are exhausted. Contact the department at 217-785-3420 to learn about future grant availability.
  
  

New York On-Site Small Wind Incentive Program (NYSERDA)

• This incentive is available in 2010 to New York residents for small wind-turbine construction on their property. The amount of the grant varies based on tower height and generation capacity of the turbine. According to the website (powernaturally.com), up to 100 percent of the project's cost may be covered. Qualified installers receive the funds and pass the savings on to the customer. An advantage is that the customer only has to find a qualified installer and leave it to the vendor to obtain the grant.