Assessing Your Small Wind Project |
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Contents
Energy Generation Estimation
Wind speed varies with time, from nothing on calm days to occasional violent gusts. If the wind speed at a site is recorded over a year, it will be seen to vary about a average wind speed value. This is the annual mean wind speed (AMWS) and is an indication of how much wind energy is available.
In the UK, AMWS could be as low as 4 m/s (9.0 mph) for an inland site to around 8 m/s (13 mph) or higher on the most exposed sites. By entering your postcode into our free wind speed checker you can get an estimate of the AMWS and expected energy output for your site. In general, you need an AMWS of at least 5 m/s to be able to generate a reasonable amount of energy, and ideally more than 5.5 m/s.
Of course, this is only an approximate method. The actual wind speed at your site may also be influenced by the local topography and any nearby obstructions such as trees, buildings etc. However, it will provide you with a useful indication of the likely energy capture from the wind turbine.
You can find more information on wind speed assessment on our How Much Wind FAQ page.
If you are in a low wind area then you may also wish to consider a Solar PV system.
Planning Constraints
There are a number of planning related issues that may make it difficult for you to install a turbine on your site and it would be wise to ensure that you are not going to fall foul of any of these before proceeding.
- Military installations. A small wind generator will not be allowed in close proximity to a military airfield or radar installation.
- Proximity to neighbours. A small wind turbine should be located at least 50m from the nearest neighbour, and ideally at least 75m - 150m depending on the size of the turbine.
- Designated areas. Whilst there is not an absolute ban on small wind generators in National Parks or Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, you may find it more difficult to satisfy the local planning officer.
You can find more information on planning issues on our Planning FAQ page.
Turbine Location
Ideally, the turbine should be sited as far away as possible from buildings or trees, which may block the wind and cause turbulence. See the figure to the left illustrating where a wind turbine should ideally be located.
Other considerations include:
- It must also be at least 50m, and ideally 75m – 100m from the nearest neighbour’s property to avoid noise being an issue.
- Access to the site will be needed for a lorry or crane in order to deliver and install the turbine pole.
You can find more information on turbine siting issues on our Space Needed FAQ page.
Funding
The types and amounts of funding available for purchasing and installing a wind generator depend on the purchaser and the area. Renewable energy installations can receive funding from several sources.
Domestic
In England, Wales and Northern Ireland until recently there was funding available from the Clear Skies Programme (www.clear-skies.org). This grant scheme has now been replaced by the Low Carbon Buildings Programme (www.lowcarbonbuildings.org.uk) managed by the Energy Saving Trust (www.est.org.uk). The level of grants are broadly the same but with some additional criteria:
- £1,000 per kW installed up to a maximum of £2,500 or 30% of total installed cost.
- The grant must be spent within 4 months of being awarded.
- The property must meet a minimum level of energy efficiency e.g. 270mm loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, basic central heating controls (timer & thermostat) and low energy light bulbs as appropriate.
- You must have planning permission before applying for a grant.
The new scheme is open for applications by submission of a paper copy downloaded from the Energy Saving Trust website. There is no carry over of unsuccessful applications from Clear Skies.
The application process is relatively simple and quick and Segen will provide you with all the information you need to complete the application form.
Community Schemes
Please contact Segen for advice on the type and sources of funding that your project may be eligible for and assistance with completing applications for funding.
Segen Site Survey
A member of Segen staff will visit your site and using a number of different techniques assess the suitability of your proposed location for a small wind turbine. A detailed report will be generated and sent to you, which will contain:
- An assessment of the potential wind resource, by using the NOABL database and then applying adjustments specific to the local circumstances. This will be a more accurate estimate than can be obtained just from the NOABL database alone.
- The identification of any issues which might impact the installation of a small wind turbine, e.g. site access, ground conditions, electrical connection, cable routes etc.
- Advice on the possible locations within the site for a turbine, taking into account the best location for wind, noise, shadow flicker, safety and the least impact on the surrounding properties and views.
- Detailed measurements which can subsequently be used for a planning application or full quotation for the installation.
- An energy generation estimation including how much energy you would be expected to use within the property, and how much would be likely to be exported to the grid.
- Details of the required ground works for the installation of the turbine, normally sufficient for you to obtain a quotation for that aspect of the project, either from Segen or a local contractor.
You will be sent the report and a full quotation within a few days of the site survey.
Segen make a modest charge of £375 + VAT (VAT is only 5% for domestic customers) for this site survey. Please contact Segen should you wish to arrange a visit.
You may also view our full Price List for Site Survey and Planning Application services.
