I think it would be cool to have one on campus. Zond has made several technological advances. The turbines are designed to last at least 30 years, able to withstand 100 mph winds as a once a year event, and 131 mph winds as a once in a 50 year event. They produce power at a constant frequency despite the variable speed of the turbine, and change the pitch of the blade at different wind speeds to reduce torque on the drive train. These advances should be proof to doubters in Congress that a dedicated effort to alternative power leads to technological advances and greater feasibility.
Wind power is no longer a hippie pipe dream, but a technological reality.
Iowa State should jump on the wind power bandwagon as soon as possible. While turbines can be expensive, they pay for themselves in the long run financially, aesthetically, environmentally and educationally. Copyright 2000 by the Iowa State Daily Publications Board. All rights reserved. No redistribution without the express written consent of the Iowa State Daily Editor in Chief.