How can windmills or wind systems be put to use in individual homes to save energy and money? and get what you need.

Did I just do a shameless plug?

There are compact spiral systems on the market that can be placed on a rooftop or backyard of a typical single family home. I once lived in house in the Southern California urbanized area that had one installed and it supplied about half of our electricity. You might want to check with your local home improvement store to see if they or available in your area.

My neighbor has one, and says it does save him money. Living on the water the thing is always cranking

That is my dream to get either a windmill or a water wheel to power an electric source. I hear the local electric companies have to buy back your excess electricity. I really want to do that someday.

they can´t unless you live in a very remote area and an excess price to connect to the grid would justify a small windmill.

Wind power is economically viable due to the large scale of modern wind turbine: 5MW... rotors of over 80m diameter and a cost of 2-5 million USD.

This is definitely not suited for a household.