@digitalimpression Yes, you could be off the grid but then you cannot do the net metering trick and you will require batteries. Some people do this but they are expensive, are maintenance nightmares, take up space, need to be replaced, take resources (lead or lithium), etc. I will not mention the potential for disaster (fire, acid leak) as those issues are completely solved., right? Your fist step is to find out the average wind and sunlight in your area. Remember what I said about the 12.4 mph. If you are below that, skip it
When we do a survey, we get the annual data for the area, look at the surrounding landscape for one mile in all directions and determine the peak wind loading for the structure. You do not want the tower or building to fall over. The tower and base are then designed to building codes and ASAE standards (American Society of Architectural Engineers). Our architect then stamps the plans so you can get a building permit from your town.
Of course you are free to put a windmill on top of a 2×4 tower you make. Just don’t expect your insurance company, or your neighbors, to pay for your damage when it falls down in a wind storm.