Eco Self Build - Wind Power
As one of the windiest countries in Europe, Britain is ideal for utilising wind power. Turbines are one of the most practical ways to produce energy and are ideal for flat building land and exposed sites.
A generator is driven by the blades of the wind turbine to produce
electricity. The electricity can link directly to the power grid
or charge batteries. The average wind speed in England is 5-6 metres
per second with exposed areas around 6-7m/s. An average installation
for a home might include a 1.7kW wind turbine which would be sufficient
to provide all of the home's energy needs.
Your wind turbine could also charge a battery installation, providing back up for two days if wind speeds drop. While a typical wind turbine installation can cost in excess of £10,000 the initial outlay will take ten to twenty years to recoup. The Government does offer grants for using green power such as this, so check to see if your project is eligible.
Useful Links:
British Wind Energy Association
http://www.bwea.com/
Positive Power
http://www.positivepower.co.uk/
Proven Energy
http://www.almac.co.uk/proven/
