Micro Wind Turbine

A Wind turbine offers both of these goals. A wind turbine is a machine that harnesses the kinetic energy in the winds and converts them into mechanical energy with the help of rotating fans. This mechanical energy can then be converted into electrical energy for regular utility purposes.

The first machine that came into existence was in the form of windmill way back in the 7th century in Sistan, Iran. Its primary use was for grinding and drawing up water. It soon spread to other parts of the world and was prevalent in the Dutch lowlands where it helped in draining out water. The first windmill to generate electricity was made by James Blyth in Scotland and it was used for charging batteries.

Now, smaller windmills designed to be used at home have become very popular because of its environmental friendliness as well as a means for saving utility bills. Some even hope to sell any extra electricity they get from these micro wind turbines and earn some income off of it. Therefore, we see rapid development of micro wind turbines all over the world. It has become especially prevalent in the UK, which is particular suited because it’s the windiest country in all Europe, to have been described as “the new handbags.” This may be because of its commendable green credentials as well as financial benefits. If properly used with solar panels, households may be able to cut down a good chuck on their electricity bills.

However, caution must be taken as to its viability in a particular region or locality. Recent reports in a British study says that only a fraction of these micro turbines used in homes provides electricity promised by its manufacturers. Encraft, an energy consultancy firm, says only 30% of household’s electricity needs is met by micro wind turbines which is just sufficient enough to light low energy light bulbs. This is due to lack of high volume of winds rather than because of some other technological issues in the micro wind turbines themselves.

In urban areas there are many objects that can obstruct wind flows like high rise buildings and trees. Therefore, locating a suitable place is extremely important for these turbines to have significant impact on the economy. If strategically sited, the British Wind Energy Association estimates that micro wind turbines used at homes have the capability to provide more than 10% of energy requirements in Britain. As people are looking ways to get energy from non-conventional sources micro wind turbines will play bigger and bigger part in our energy hungry society.

When coupled with other sources like solar panels, they have changed the way people live in far off places where normal utility grid is not available. Wind energy has now seen more applications in areas where solar panels had the sole monopoly like charging electric fences and powering remote telephone call boxes. Its appeal for off-the-grid applications will help maintain its role as clean source of energy for mass consumption.

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