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Advice

So you thought that solar panels were the only way you could produce your own renewable energy? Well, now wind energy is coming to us all on the small-scale and could produce up to 15% of your annual electricity needs (for an average household).

However it is increasingly uncertain if domestic wind turbines are living up to their marketing hype due to whether the average household will achieve the required wind speeds for long enough. Check out the BBC article in the links on the right to gain a better an understanding of why they might not be all they seem.

However it may be that domestic wind turbines will suit your house and if you do want to invest in a turbine, then get some assurances from the wind turbine supplier that you will achieve what’s in their marketing literature.

There are at least three companies in the UK developing a domestic wind turbine that can be mounted onto the side of your house, though the mounting is insulated against the vibration from the turbine causing any sound or structural issues.

The reason this technology is very exciting is because it will only have around a three year payback period, after grants. After that, the domestic turbine will effectively provide free electricity. However this is to be confirmed.

If you are considering a photovoltaic array then it might be worth putting some of the money into a domestic wind turbine to join the system, as this will reduce the overall payback period for the whole system. We would recommend you discuss this with the installer of the system so they can help you make the right choice.

Domestic turbines can be broken down into two main types, the first is where they produce electricity, which is first used in your dwelling if required, and then exported to the grid. The second type directly heats water (effectively replacing grid electricity or a fossil fuel).

Both systems will have their own advantages and disadvantages and it is worth talking to the companies developing these turbines to see which system is best for yourself.

Other Sustainable Considerations

Why not make your dwelling energy efficient, especially electrical consuming items such as lighting and purchasing an A(++) fridge freezer, in order to make the most of your renewable energy.

Why not ask your local council if they might help with the installation costs so they can use your turbine as a demonstration of the technology. Please note that 'strings' may be attached which include school visits to see the turbine in action.