Cool Hunting

Following last week's exhibit of Popular Science's Best of What's New 2006, CH's latest pick from the annual round-up of new innovations is the Skystream 3.7. The first all-inclusive wind generator engineered for residential use, the Skystream provides clean, quiet electricity, reducing or eliminating energy costs (from 40-100%) for homes and small businesses. The Skystream works in average winds as low as 10 MPH and in high wind conditions, Skystream can actually produce extra electricty, offsetting your bill with a credit (depending on your utility company).

Installable in any location with zoning laws that allow 42-foot structures, tower heights start at about 35-feet tall and can be installed on lots that are at least a half acre at an average cost of $9,000-$12,000 and for an average yearly savings of $672. An optional two-way remote can control the Skystream from up to 1,000 feet away and can monitor performance on your computer via a USB cable. Also designed with aesthetics in mind, the Skystream adds futuristic, guilt-relieving good looks to suburbanite homes.