Measures Database
| ENERGY: ON SITE WIND POWER |
Exemplar Review on a site by site basis High cost Difficult to implement EcoHomes and BREEAM credits achievable |
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Description |
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 The most common design for a wind turbine is for three blades mounted on a horizontal axis, which is free to rotate into the wind on a tall tower. The blades drive a generator either directly or via a gearbox (generally for larger machines) to produce electricity. The electricity can either link to the grid or charge batteries. An invertor is required to convert electricity from DC to AC for feeding into the grid.Modern quiet wind turbines are becoming viable in low density areas, where ease of maintenance and immediate connection to grid or proposed development, may make them cost effective, despite lower wind speeds than in open areas. Small turbines can also be mounted on buildings as shown in the image (Swift turbine by Renewable Devices Ltd). There are currently few implementations of these in the UK but it is anticipated that this will be a growing market. |
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Cost |
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| Systems for households or businesses (1.5kW to 10kW) can cost between £5,000-£25,000, including turbine, mast, inverters, storage (if required) and installation; depending on the size and type of system installed. Larger turbines serving whole communities will have higher costs with a 20KW turbine costing around £80,000. | |
Benefits |
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Local Authorities |
Where local authorities have climate change strategies, including reduction targets, the installation of wind turbines will contribute towards reaching those targets. Installation of wind turbines will also contribute towards any local or regional targets regarding the installation of renewable energy technologies. |
Global Environment |
The use of wind turbines decreases the amount of fossil fuel, through grid electricity that is required to power lights and appliances within a home. It therefore saves CO2 emissions and use of natural resources. A 6kW system can provide 12,000-15,000 kWh per year depending on site and location. |
Occupier |
As the occupier will be benefiting from the free use of the wind to provide electricity, money will be saved on electricity bills. A small return from the sale of electricity may be possible, depending on amount exported and the deal negotiated with the energy company. It is most cost effective however to use all the electricity generated in the building where the demands will allow. |
Developer |
If a developer decides to market wind turbines actively as a desirable commodity for the development, they could have a positive impact on the marketing of the properties. If the local planning authority has targets regarding renewable energy, the inclusion of wind turbines in a new development could have a positive impact on planning. |
Implementation notes |
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| Planning permission will be required for each turbine. Pre-application discussions with the planning authority is advised, as is consultation with the local community to prevent objections. Not all areas have sufficient wind speed to make turbines viable and wind monitoring should be carried in potential sites particularly for larger turbines | |
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