Stand-alone systems are often used as a source of power in remote locations where conventional methods of supply are expensive or impractical, for example where new power lines would be required. The wind turbines are generally connected to batteries, which are charged when spare energy is produced and provide power when needed, for instance during periods of low wind speeds. National Park Case Study: Cwm Porth.
It is common to combine this with a diesel generator for use when additional power is required (for your nearest Biodiesel supplier please contact the National Park Authority).
Grid-connected: A wind turbine can be connected to the local electricity grid and export any excess electricity produced to the grid, with the agreement of the network operator and an electricity supplier. In periods of high wind, turbines may produce more power than is needed which allows excess electricity to be exported back to the grid. Conversely, when domestic demand is high extra electricity can be purchased from the grid through an electricity supply company. For information regarding connection to the grid please contact the National Park Authority on the number at the bottom of the sheet. National Park Case Study:.
Costs and Maintenance: Wind turbines have proved to be very reliable and can have a design life of 25 years or more. Costs vary due to a range of factors such as size of turbine, the height of tower, length of cabling required and geographic location. A system to provide all the electricity for a medium sized detached house might cost in the region of £10,000-£20,000.
Payback: At present the typical financial payback period on micro-wind is 7-12 years. A domestic micro-wind turbine could save an average household (with an average wind regime) approximately a third of its typical energy requirement. The larger micro-wind systems can provide nearly all the energy required in a home.
Do I need Planning Permission? Whilst the National Park Authority view small-scale wind turbines favourably they do not fall within permitted development and you will require planning permission.Please use the RELATED CONTENTS menu for more details on Planning Permissions.
Want to find a local installer? Please use the navigation menu to find a list of local, accredited (Low Carbon Buildings Programme) installers.
Grants: To find out what financial help may be available please use the RELATED CONTENTS menu.
For more information please telephone 01874 624437.