Introduction
Small/micro wind energy systems can be an effective method of generating
renewable electricity on-site, and an increasing number of different products are now available. As with other forms of on-site renewable electricity generation, micro wind avoids carbon dioxide emissions resulting from the use of fossil fuels to generate electricity. This is especially significant due to the low conversion efficiency from some power stations and electricity transmission losses. Onsite wind energy generation brings additional advantages of increased security of supply for non grid-connected machines and some protection against electricity price rises.
Small/micro wind turbines cost significantly more than large turbines per kilowatt of capacity installed, but can help to reduce carbon emissions and can still be economically viable in some situations. These systems are now readily available including some that are designed to be mounted on a building rather than a freestanding tower. They can be used to generate electricity for homes, public buildings or businesses. If a turbine is mounted to a building, the building structure should be checked to see if it can cope with the additional stresses and vibration generated by the turbine.
Focus South West
- The National Marine Aquarium in Plymouth has two 15 metre high, 6 kW Proven wind turbines in front of the building. They were put in place both as an educational exhibit to teach visitors how renewable energy works, but also to power the aquarium's new £3.6 million Explorocean interactive attraction which showcases different types of sustainable ocean-based energies, including solar, tidal and wind energy.
- Jubilee Wharf, Penryn. 4, 6KW turbines provide 50% of electrical demand annually/ scheme on the riverside in Penryn comprising of a nursery, bar/cafe, offices, live-a-board facilities, external public spaces and landscaping, 12 rented workspaces, and 6 residential units with external balconies. Due for completion in Autumn 2006, the scheme has received Sure Start funding and private funding. The scheme features a wood pellet boiler and 4 wind turbines, and will be a Zero (fossil) Energy Development. The wind turbines will generate most of the expected electrical demand, whilst all the space heating and hot water will be met by solar thermal and the wood pellet boiler. The client is committed to using local, reclaimed or recycled materials wherever possible. The project will be a hub of arts and crafts with lettable workspaces for local people.
