Abstract Small wind turbines have been used for mechanical grain grinding, water pumping, cathodic protection, battery charging, and electricity generation. The critical issue in selecting a wind turbine is to find one that meets the anticipated load. Because there are a wide range of small wind turbine sizes available, the evaluation of the anticipated load is necessary. Some of the more popular applications are presented along with a method of determining the needed power to perform the required task or tasks. Small wind systems used for generation of utility-grade electricity, connected to the electric utility, are included.