Wind Turbines

Wind Turbine Power

In simple terms wind turns a rotor fitted with aerodynamic blades which is linked to a generator producing DC current, this is used either to charge batteries and/or converted to AC current to be used running appliances, exported (sold) to the local or national grid, or used for direct heating.

Wind speed is the crucial element in the consideration of a home wind turbines, making the site the major concern. A smooth hill-top site, free from excessive turbulence caused by trees, buildings or other obstructions are ideal, but as wind speed increases with height mounting the turbine on a tower, mast, or even a roof will increase performance.

The amount of electricity generated is directly related to the amount of wind available at any one site. Although the UK has a large potential wind resource (estimated at 40% of European wind energy), unless you are very unlucky, it is not available all day every day. Using average annual wind speed a system can be sized to generate in total, annual electricity usage. Grid connection can be used to balance the generation of electricity with the use of electricity over a year. An off-grid system relies on battery storage to achieve the same effect, but with the additional cost, maintenance and safe-keeping of the batteries. It is possible to connect home wind turbines to electric storage heaters or immersion heating of water. Wind turbines, after sheep wool installation, generate electricity at no further cost and, whether used or sold, reduces the annual electricity cost and CO2 emissions

Typical home wind turbines will require a mast or tower (even if roof mounted), a rotor/generator mechanism, an inverter that converts DC to AC current, a display meter, cabling and possibly an export meter for the local electricity supply company.

Home wind turbines may be used to charge 12 or 24 volt batteries for low voltage lighting, electric fencing, remote monitoring stations, or in boats and caravans.

Key issues

1 ) Wind resource available to site
2 ) Electricity generation requirement.
3 ) On-Grid, Off-Grid, or direct connection.
4 ) Local planning requirements.

Renewable Energy Users & Carbon Abatement

People dream of generating their own power from clean and renewable sources of energy, and becoming independent of the National Grid. This idea is becoming more and more popular due to the finite supply of fossil fuels and concern over environmental issues. Recently, instability in the Middle East, and rises in the price of crude oil, have also highlighted our insecurities due to our dependence on fossil fuels. People, who are environmentally friendly and consider themselves to be ‘green’, may consider using one of our Small Wind Turbines alongside solar panel heating and photovoltaic modules, as part of an Energy Efficient household. This type of system is slowly growing in popularity but is still far from mainstream. Recent Government incentives, policies and the advent of direct grid-ties are making the market for this application grow steadily.

Rural Development

It is often expensive to run National Grid power lines to rural and remote locations. Our products can provide a stand-alone solution that requires no connection to the National Grid. This is far more cost effective than the capital cost of having power lines and pylons installed. Sites that fall under this application are often suitable by default.

Farm Utilities

Our Wren, Mistral or Merlin Small Wind Turbines can be used instead of traditional wind-pumps for water pumping and crop irrigation. This is done through an electro-mechanical pump system, rather than the rudimentary direct drive mechanical pumps found in traditional wind pump machines. The power generated can also be used for electric fencing and incubation / germination
purposes. What is more, a farm using renewable energy can truly claim to be ‘environmentally friendly’. It is a growing trend for farmers to become organic and environmentally sound. Our products can become integral to this claim.

Street Lighting & Road Signage

Street lighting provides the essential light needed to maintain safety and security after nightfall. It is often very costly to install street lighting in some areas. Our products can be used to power street lighting in conjunction with photovoltaic’s. It is also possible to use our small wind turbines to energise mobile / road safety signage through roadworks and accident hotspots.

Yachting & Marine

Wren is particularly suited to providing power for yachts and marine craft. A Wren unit can provide power to your lighting and electronic appliances aboard your vessel as well as the important task of maintaining your batteries during long periods at rest. Wren has been designed to cope with the harsh conditions that a maritime environment delivers. A Samrey Wren turbine will look at home on the deck of your pride and joy.