Wind Turbines

What are wind turbines and how do they work?Caron Alternative Energy Systems - New generation roof mounted wind turbine

Wind turbines are the most common of the alternative energies, they are effectively the modern equivalent of the old fashioned windmill.

The rotors or blades of the wind turbines are placed on a pole high up, where they need relatively little wind to turn them. The spinning blades of the turbines create electricity by rotating a permanent magnet to generate electricity, which can be used for a variety of purposes.

The more electricity required the bigger the wind turbines required. When most people think of wind turbines they think of the very large commercial wind farms, with very high, very large wind turbines. Wind turbines are now available on a much smaller scale for domestic dwellings, and are capable of generating sufficient electricity for the household, and dependent upon size, there is also the possibility of selling excess electricity to the grid.

 

Benefits of Wind Turbines

  • Wind turbines are environmentally friendly.
  • Once installed wind turbines provide free electricity. 
  • Wind turbines are a more established technology, they are a cheaper option and have a lower payback period.
  • During periods of good wind, electricity produced by Wind turbines and not used or stored can be sold to electricity companies.
  • Our new generation wind turbines not only look different, they are quieter and more efficient. Their light-weight and compact design allows them to be located on building roofs.


Suitability

In the main, wind turbines are used for supplementing an existing electricity supply.

You will need a suitable environment to be able to locate the turbine, as far away as possible from trees and buildings.

You will need a suitable base or plinth on which to mount the wind turbine.

Wind turbines only produce electricity while the wind is blowing, so a continuous supply of electricity cannot be achieved.

If there is no existing supply of electricity, electricity will either need to be stored for fallow periods, and/or used in conjunction with another source of renewable energy.

Not all locations are suitable for wind turbines, the positioning of the turbine and the surrounding environment are critical for optimum performance.

Any local planning restrictions need to be taken account of, in England and Wales planning permission is necessary to install a small wind turbine.

Wind turbines are best suited for rural properties, farms, community buildings, industrial estates, schools etc.

Our individual system design will provide you with the best options for your individual needs. We are able to design and supply ‘off grid options’ which will allow you to be self sufficient for electricity, heating and hot water.

Please see our Technical Information Sheet for answers to frequently asked questions.