Roof-mounted turbines were very popular a year ago or two. However, over the last few months a couple of reports have been published that suggest building-mounted turbines may not deliver as much electricity as hoped. One of the major manufacturers has just closed and stopped supplying turbines to domestic customers.

So, should you consider installing a turbine on the roof of a building? In most cases the strength of the wind is too low and the turbulence in the wind reduces the available energy further. This is especially true for homes where neighbouring homes are close by. Measuring the wind speed is essential prior to spending what can be £4,000 to £5,000 on  turbine.

The most successful wind projects are where turbines are mounted on masts away from buildings, trees and other obstructions. It is still important to measure the wind speed at the proposed site if you don't want to be disappointed by the results.

If the wind speed is too low you may want to look at other technologies such as solar PV (photovoltaic) or micro-hydro at your building as the outputs of these systems are more predictable.

Photo by Mike Baird

About the Author: Graham Eastwick is a director of Encraft, and manages renewable energy installations for home owners, community organisations and small businesses across the UK.

About the author: Graham Eastwick is a director of Encraft, and manages renewable energy installations for home owners, community organisations and small businesses across the UK.

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