Small Wind Turbines

Wind energy is a clean, renewable power source that’s readily available and free to use. Wind turbines make use of this natural power by converting wind into electricity. When the wind blows, the turbine blades spin, driving a generator to produce energy. The stronger the wind, the more electricity generated!

There are two main types of wind turbines suitable for home use:

• Pole-Mounted Turbines: These stand on their own pole, usually placed in a clear, open area with strong wind exposure. They generally produce between 5kW and 6kW of electricity.
• Building-Mounted Turbines: These smaller turbines can be installed on rooftops or building sides, typically generating around 1kW to 2kW. They’re ideal for homes with suitable wind resources.

Small wind is especially practical for remote areas where connecting to the grid may be costly or challenging, though building-mounted turbines can work in urban settings if there’s consistent wind.

For the best results, turbines should ideally be located on a hilltop or raised structure, away from obstructions like trees or other buildings, to maximise wind exposure. Generally, higher placements catch stronger, steadier winds.

Before installing a turbine, it’s a good idea to check with your local council on the necessary planning permissions. They can guide you through the process to ensure your setup meets local regulations.

Consumers should expect a high standard of work, thorough documentation, support for incentive applications, and clear warranty terms from an MCS certified installer. 

• Your chosen technology should be working as expected.
• MCS certificate within 10 working days of completion.
• Handover pack upon completion, including key resources such as product details and workmanship warranty.
• A system designed and installed in accordance to the MCS Standards.

Living with your technology

Maintenance checks for small wind turbines are generally needed every few years, typically costing between £100 and £200, depending on the size of your system.

With regular upkeep, your small wind turbine can last over 20 years. However, you may need to replace the inverter, which helps convert the turbine’s energy into usable electricity, once during its lifetime. For a larger system, this replacement usually costs between £1,000 and £2,000.

For off-grid systems, batteries are essential and will need replacing every six to ten years. Battery replacement costs vary based on your system’s design and size, so checking with your installer for specifics can help budget for future needs.