Sale Home Wind Turbine Installation
Request A Free Quotation
Selling Excess Electricity Generated From Your Home Wind Turbine
One of the most appealing aspects of owning a home wind turbine is the potential to not only generate your own electricity but to also be able to sell any excess electricity back to the grid. This concept, often referred to as 'net metering' or 'feed-in tariffs', allows homeowners to become part of the energy solution, contributing to the national grid's renewable energy sources. But how does this process work, and what do you need to know to get started?
Firstly, it's important to understand that the ability for you to sell electricity back to the grid depends on the regulations in your area and the policies of your energy provider. In the UK, the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) scheme has replaced the previous Feed-in Tariff (FiT) scheme. Under SEG, licensed electricity suppliers with a certain number of customers are obligated to offer a tariff and pay small-scale low-carbon generators, like home wind turbine owners, for the electricity they export back to the grid. The rate paid varies between suppliers, so it is worth shopping around to find the best deal. To qualify for the scheme your installation must meet certain criteria and be carried out by a certified installer. This ensures that it is safe and that it is capable of efficiently generating electricity.
Before you start, you will need to have a smart meter installed that can accurately measure the electricity you're exporting. This allows your energy provider to monitor how much power you're sending back and ensure you're compensated correctly. It's also a good idea to consider the size of your wind turbine and your household's energy consumption. If your turbine generates more electricity than you use, selling the surplus can be financially rewarding. However, if your consumption is high, the amount available to sell might be less, though still beneficial. Engaging with your energy provider early on can provide clarity on the process and help you understand the potential financial returns.
Our domestic wind turbine installers in Sale are waiting for your call
and are ready to answer any questions you may have about getting a new wind turbine installed
Can Installing A Home Wind Turbine Increase My Property Value
The installation of a home wind turbine is often seen as a step towards sustainability and energy independence. However, you might also be wondering whether your investment could also increase your property's market value. A wind turbine, by providing your home with a renewable energy source, can indeed make a property more attractive to potential buyers who value sustainability and are conscious of rising energy costs and therefore add value onto your home.
One of the key factors that contributes to the added value is the reduction in your electricity bills. A home that is equipped with a wind turbine is able to generate a significant portion of its own electricity requirements, thereby decreasing your reliance on grid-supplied power. This reduction in energy costs is a compelling selling point, as it promises future savings for prospective buyers. In addition to that, with the growing emphasis on green living, properties that offer renewable energy sources are becoming increasingly desirable. This trend is reflected in the willingness of buyers to pay a premium for homes that are seen as environmentally friendly and cost-efficient in the long run.
However, the extent to which a wind turbine increases your property's value can vary based on several factors, including:
- The location of your property
- The size and efficiency of the installed turbine
- The overall energy demand of your home
Properties that are in areas with higher wind speeds and more consistent wind patterns are likely to see a greater increase in value, as the turbines in these locations can produce more electricity and therefore, provide you with greater savings. It's also important for you to consider the aesthetics and the potential planning permissions that are associated with installing a wind turbine. These can impact both the feasibility of the installation and its reception on the market.
Can A Home Wind Turbine Completely Replace My Need For Grid Electricity?
The idea of using a home wind turbine to completely cut ties with the grid and achieve energy independence is an appealing one for many. However, whether this is feasible for you will depend on several factors
- Your energy consumption
- The wind resource in your area
- Your capacity for energy storage
The potential to go entirely off-grid with a wind turbine does exist, but it requires careful planning and consideration of your specific circumstances.
Firstly, it's important that you understand your home's energy needs. The average household's energy consumption varies widely, and so does the ability of a wind turbine to meet these needs. Wind turbines come in various sizes, and their electricity output is highly dependent on local wind speeds. In areas of the UK with consistent and strong winds, a suitably sized turbine could generate a significant portion of, or even all, your household's electricity needs. However, wind speed can be variable, and there will be times when it's not sufficient to power your home. This is where energy storage systems, such as batteries, come into play. They can store excess energy generated on windy days for use during calm periods, but the capacity needed to cover extended low-wind periods can be substantial and costly.
Moreover, the transition to being completely off-grid is not just about generating enough electricity. It's also about managing your energy use efficiently. This might involve changing how and when you use electricity, investing in energy-efficient appliances, and possibly even altering your lifestyle to some extent. Additionally, there are practical considerations, such as the initial investment for the turbine and storage system, maintenance costs, and planning permissions. While technology and storage solutions are continually improving, making the dream of going off-grid more attainable, it's a complex process that requires a significant commitment.
In conclusion, while it's technically possible for a home wind turbine to replace the need for grid electricity, achieving complete independence is challenging. It requires a combination of favourable conditions, including a good wind resource, a significant initial investment in equipment and storage, and a commitment to energy efficiency. For those considering this path, it's advisable to start with a detailed assessment of your energy needs and local wind conditions, possibly with the help of an expert. Going off-grid is a big step, but with the right preparation, it can be a rewarding journey towards sustainability and independence.
Our domestic wind turbine installers in Sale are waiting for your call
and are ready to answer any questions you may have about getting a new wind turbine installed
Home Wind Turbine Installation FAQs
What is cheaper solar panels or wind turbines?
At a large-scale, wind energy can be cheaper than solar. However, solar energy is more affordable for residential installations and smaller-scale consumers. Location also influences the cost. For example, solar power is likely cheaper per kWh and more efficient in an area with a lot of sunshine but little wind.
Can a 5kW wind turbine power a house?
A typical home uses approximately 10,649 kilowatt-hours (kWh), an average of 877 kWh per month. Depending on the average wind speed in the area, a wind turbine rated in the range of 5 to 15 kW would be required to make a significant contribution to this demand.
How much does a home wind turbine cost UK?
Small roof-mounted wind turbines usually aren't more than 0.5-1.5 kW, and cost around £2,000 to 3,000, including installation. Standalone (or pole-mounted) turbines can vary a lot in size and, therefore, in price. They can cost anywhere from £7,000 for a 1.5 kW system, to £70,000 for a 15 kW system.
Is a home wind turbine worth it UK?
Is a home wind turbine worth it UK? A well-sited 6kW turbine can generate around 9,000kWh a year, which could save you around £510 a year on your electricity bills*. The renewable energy generated could also save around 2,000kg of carbon dioxide a year. *Savings and SEG payments assume household occupants are out all day until 4pm.
Is a 2 or 3 blade wind turbine better?
Is a 2 or 3 blade wind turbine better? A two-blade turbine will be approximately 5% less efficient than a three-blade turbine, but will provide a higher return on investment due to lower costs.
What can a 5kW wind turbine power?
A 5kW turbine (average residential size, 18ft. rotor diameter) produces around 10,000 kWh per year in 12mph average winds, which is about 100% of what an average British home requires.
Other areas near Sale we cover include: