Wind Turbine Guide

Wind generators or wind turbines are more correctly called ‘Wind Energy Converter’. That is because it converts the energy of wind into another form of energy-electricity. When the wind blows, the blades stop a percentage of the wind. Apparently the maximum conversion is 59.3% and what is achieved is a function of the design.

Turbine design

Broadly there are two:
Horizontal axis where blades revolve around a mechanism parallel to the ground
The blades are typically at right angles, like an old fashioned aeroplane, and where the whole structure aligns to the wind; but can be in parallel on a horizontal fixed mechanism.
Vertical axis where blades revolve around a vertical fixed mechanism.
This arrangement can use less space and be fixed directly to a roof or similar. Depending on decisions of aesthetics a number of units can be mounted in a relatively small area.

Popularity

Horizontal turbines are obviously the most popular currently. Other types are being developed and have advantages. For example , with the typical horizontal axis design it is best if all the length of the (long) blade is caught by the wind so this type has to be on higher masts.

Blade design

Modern materials and design result in the lifting aerofoil. Very sophisticated design is necessary to maximise torque at varying wind speeds. Typically three blades are deployed.

Output

It is unfortunately generally true that the bigger the unit the more power can be produced. We give more detailed guidance elsewhere but we recommend considering units and hybrids to produce more power than you will use so you can feed into the Grid.

Cost

Please recognise at an early stage that the initial cost of a unit is only a part of the total. Fixing, connecting, and batteries are significant costs.

Noise

It is now a government requirement that turbines operate within defined noise levels.

Disturbance

There is some evidence of disruption to wildlife

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