With fixed prices for electricity generated by small scale renewable energy on their way, are we likely to see a better range of domestic wind turbine models on the market soon?
Over the past ten years there has been a limited range of domestic scale wind turbines on the market, with disaster striking with the B&Q cheap (and ineffective) rooftop turbine. This Youtube video shows a Danish householder with a reasonable plot of land using what appears to be a much more effective stand alone Gaia wind turbine.
The turbine has a peak rated output of 11kW and is described by the manufacturer as suitable for farms, large residences, offices, small businesses and public buildings where the main aim is to reduce the amount of electricity imported. In the right locations exporting electricity is also possible. The turbine has been designed to give an optimum yield in moderate wind speeds which the manufacturer specifies as a range of between 4.5-7.5 m/s (10-12mph).
The small turbine growth market is showing signs of expansion. There is even a conference planned specifically for small scale wind turbines next year. The conference is to be held in Glasgow in April by International Small Wind Conference (organised by BRE and BWEA). An exhibition hall hosting up to 50 small wind companies showing off their technologies, products, and services will allow all those with an interest in small wind turbines to see everything on offer in one place. Entrance to the exhibition hall is free – so if you have a wind system to demonstrate – this is the event for you.
