In housing locations wind power can be very unpredictable and a full survey of estimated output is essential before considering installation. Turbines use the lift forces of the wind to rotate aerodynamic blades which turn a rotor, creating electricity. The minimum wind speed required for a turbine in the UK is 6m/s upwards. It is unlikely that small turbines will produce enough energy to power an entire house so they need to be installed alongside other renewable solutions such as solar power. In domestic environments, turbines can be free standing or mounted on the roof.
A turbine can either be connected to the national grid or stand alone. Wind turbines generate direct current (DC) electricity which needs to be converted to alternating current (AC) to be used in the home or by the national grid. A converter and controller are needed if the turbine is connected to the grid and a battery storage device and an inverter if a stand alone unit.
The benefit of connecting a turbine to the national grid is that any unused or excess electricity may be exported and sold to the local electricity supply company; generating revenue.
Housing projects which would benefit from wind power would be off grid locations or exposed higher ground areas. Places which are fully urbanised or protected by hills or trees would not be practical for wind power.
The average life span of a turbine is up to 20 years but they do need regular maintenance checks to ensure efficiency. For stand alone turbines the battery storage device will need replacing every 6-10 years.
THE BENEFIT OF CONNECTING A TURBINE TO THE NATIONAL GRID IS THAT ANY UNUSED OR EXCESS ELECTRICITY MAY BE EXPORTED AND SOLD TO THE LOCAL ELECTRICITY SUPPLY COMPANY; GENERATING REVENUE.
A roof mounted turbine will cost up to £1500 but as yet no figures have been released as to the average yearly output, C02 or energy savings. Free standing turbines can cost in the region of £25,000 but do vary and it is likely that planning permission will also be required.
