Wind power is a popular source of energy as it is clean, abundant and fully renewable. Whilst in the UK it remains a largely untapped source (wind supplies between 1 and 2 per cent of our electrical needs), other European countries already generate as much as 20 per cent of their electricity from wind farms.
A wind turbine can be fitted to a domestic property or other building in order to generate your own power, this will supplement your local supply rather than completely replace it.
The key benefits of choosing a wind turbine are:
- An environmentally friendly, low cost source of sustainable energy – grants may be available in your local area to assist in your investment.
- Reduction in your energy bills. There is a guaranteed return on investment and the wind turbine will pay for itself several times over in its lifetime.
Click here for details on Return on Investment. - Reduction in your CO2 emissions - do your bit for the planet.
A site survey will be necessary to assess the suitability of your property. Planning permission may be required, so we advise that you contact your local planning department for their policy in your area.
For most domestic properties a turbine installation is a straightforward process, however, it does require a team of our qualified engineers.
Installing a Small Wind Turbine - Summary
1. Get a reliable estimate of the wind speed at the proposed site. Turbine manufacturers should be prepared to help. The generator must get acceptance for connection to the electricity distribution network. (if applicable).
2. Mount the turbine on as high a tower as possible and well clear of obstructions, but do not go to extremes. Easy access will be required for erection, and foundations for the tower may be needed depending on the size and tower type. It is also important to ensure that the wind turbine can be easily lowered for inspection and maintenance.
3. Try to have a clear, smooth fetch to the prevailing wind, e.g. over open water, smooth ground or on a smooth hill.
4. Use cable of adequate current carrying capacity (check with the turbine supplier. This is particularly important for low voltage machines). Cable costs can be substantial.
5. Consult your local council as to whether you need planning permission. You should try to minimise the environmental impact of the turbine, and it will be helpful to inform your neighbours of your plans at an early stage.
6. Once the machine is under construction, ask your chosen supply company whether they need you to be accredited for ROCs, LECs, & REGOs and what type of onsite and/or export metering they require you to have (if applicable). By changing to a green electricity supplier, you can generate a substantial return on a microgeneration tariff.
Connecting to the National GridBoth Solar electricity (PV) systems and wind turbines can be connected to the National Grid. Unless you are in a remote property with no access to mains electricity, a deal with the National Grid means you can avoid the use of bulky, expensive batteries to store the electricity you generate. In effect, you treat the National Grid like a great big battery – you put any surplus electricity you generate into the grid when the wind blows or the sun is shining then take back what you need when the weather doesn’t allow you to generate enough electricity of your own.
For more information please call: 0845 257 0041 or click here