Micro Wind

We are all used to the sight of wind turbines on hillsides. Valuable as these are to the overall proportion of electricity generated in the UK from renewable resources, the value of micro wind turbines for the individual householder remains variable.

Technology does exist to put a smaller turbine on a roof to generate electricity for the house, and even to sell any surplus onto the National Grid. However, NEA trials have led to concerns about manufacturer’s claims and that wind turbines may be installed in areas without a sufficient wind speed to generate the energy expected. Larger scale work by Warwick University (www.warwickwindtrials.org.uk) hopes to clarify these issues.

It is worth remembering that installing low energy light bulbs wherever possible in your home can save approximately 300 watts of energy. Always do the simple things first!