2Kw Grid Connected Turbine

[Baggers]

I am a non-techie - (a statement, not an apology!!), and am very interested in a 2Kw grid connected wind turbine to reduce the cost of my electricity bills (so that I can utilise the power all over my house without the need for separate wiring and to cut out the requirement of batteries), and have the following queries/questions:

- Are there alternatives to the 'windy boy' grid tie inverters (the cost of these seem high)?
- If there is a power cut, will I be able to utilise the power from my wind turbine? 
- Following a power cut, will there be a need for any re-calibration to continue selling excess power?
- What is the life expectancy of the 2Kw turbine, or more likely, the average annual maintenance (will help with the pay back calculations)?
- I assume that I would need planning consent, but would I need building regs due to the height of the tower or overall height of the structure?

Also, if anyone has already done this and is willing to share their thoughts and experiences, I would be very grateful.

Many Thanks in anticipation,

Malcolm

[Ian]

Malcolm - It looks quite straightforward.

1. I am sure that there are alternatives to the WB range from SMA but I do not know of any that are easily available, in a good range, and G/83 certified. You need G/83 if you want to sell power to a utility in UK.

You can use grid tie inverters designed for solar PV but the maximum power point (MPP) tracking algorhythm will not extract the best out of your turbine.

2. In a power cut you will NOT be able to use any power from your turbine as you have outlined. You could use the output if you installed suitable switchgear and another inverter.

3. There is no need to do anything after a power cut - the inverter will do it all itself.

4. Maintenance is relatively low. Allow for a new set of blades every 3 - 5 years. Something like 20 - 25 years is claimed by manufacturers but I think you can take these claims with a pinch of salt.

5. You need planning consent for any structure over, I think, 3.8m. You will need planning permission. The tower is not a dwelling or place of work so is not covered by building regs.

There are a lot of threads on this forum covering issues around wind turbines and may be worth a look.

I hope this helps.

Regards,
Ian

[Baggers]

Ian,

Excellent - very helpful, many thanks indeed.

Malcolm