wind
Wind power makes electricity from the movement of wind. The stronger the wind, the greater the amount of electricity produced.
There are two types of domestic-sized wind turbines:
- mast-mounted – these are free-standing and are erected in a suitably exposed position
- roof-mounted – these are the smaller of the two and can be installed on the roof of a home where there is sufficient wind
Here's how they work
- The large blades on the wind turbine catch the wind
- The rotation of the blades drives the turbine, which creates electricity via a generator
within the unit
- A converter changes the direct current (DC) electricity into alternating current (AC)
for use in your home
For this technology to be suitable for your home, you need a clear space free of obstacles such as trees and to live in an area with wind speeds of 5 m/s or more.
For more information, visit
The Energy Saving Trust - Wind-Turbines page.