Due to materials shortage and increasing import costs there is a need for alternative
technology to be developed for the small wind turbine industry. For the small wind industry
the supply and cost of materials will be a huge factor in shaping the future of the technology
used in wind generators. This project looks at alternative technology to improve efficiency,
performance and simplify the system for installers and end users. In doing this the project will
eradicate the use of imported materials in favour of a more cost effective alternative that can
be sourced in the UK. There is also a need for small wind turbine systems to be simplified for
installers and end users, which is why the project will look to incorporate an innovative ‘plug
and play approach’ using alternative technology in the process. The key objectives of the
project are to conduct initial feasibility studies on small wind technologies to deal with these
issues and to produce a design for a prototype small wind turbine. The project will have an
economic impact on the wider UK manufacturing industry with jobs and revenue created by
establishing a UK supply chain for the manufacture of this innovative wind turbine. Quality of
life will be improved with independence from the national grid for end users. This wind
turbine will be a valuable learning tool and a vital part of engineering, science and STEM
activities in schools. The energy that the turbine itself produces will offset energy used during
manufacture and also energy that would otherwise be consumed from the grid and fossil fuels
by the end user. Thus the technology contributes towards the reduction of Carbon Dioxide
emissions and assists the UK in lowering its Carbon emissions.