About Wind Turbines
Wind turbines can be one of the most effective methods of generating energy when sited in a good location. A correctly positioned wind turbine can produce excellent results, reducing the dependance on the National Grid and replacing carbon emissions that would otherwise have been generated from using conventional energy sources.
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Wind turbines can generate electricity and supply buildings in parallel with grid electricity or operate as stand alone systems. Wind turbines are not well suited to medium-high density urban areas but in a windy rural location they can have excellent performance. |
Components of a Wind Power System
- The Turbine: This Converts energy captured from the wind into Direct Current (DC) Electricity.
- Turbine Tower: - This is where the turbine is mounted. Standard towers are 9, 12, 13, 15 and 18m metres high.
- Inverter: The inverter is basically a power adapter, that converts DC power into AC power, to be used either to integrate with conventional wiring systems and or sold to the grid (exported).
- Cable Trench: In most cases the turbine will be located away from buildings, a cable trench is dug to lay cables connecting the turbine to the electrical system.
- Meters: Metres are used to track what is both being bought from and sold to the grid. To claim sale of Renewable Obligation Certificates (ROCs) you will also need a ROC meter.
Locating Wind Turbines
The amount of wind and the speed in which the wind hits the turbine is essential for a successful installation. Good locations for wind turbines could include:
- Exposed locations where you can feed off a regular wind speed.
- High locations free of obstructions such as buildings and trees
The Department for Business and Regulatory Reform (BERR) have a windspeed database where if you have the Ordnance Survey Grid Reference of the location you can calculate the windspeed.
Benefits of a Wind Power System:
- Green electricity for use locally
- You can sell your excess electricity to the national grid
- If you use battery storage you can have a useful back up if your grid connection is unreliable
- A wide range of wind turbines to suit power requirements from 400w upwards
- Very low maintenance.
- Eligible for Renewable Obligation Certificates (ROCs)