Small wind turbines are an increasingly important element in the drive towards helping the UK become energy independent and achieving the target of 15% energy production from renewable by 2020. With refinements in wind technology, small wind turbines are proven to be cost effective and completely compatible with the government’s strategy of increasing domestic embedded generation, but the potential of these turbines has not yet been optimised.
During 2011-12 Evance have achieved proof of concept for an innovative new small wind turbine with a unique generator and braking system. The new turbine will be a product which can significantly improve reliability and extend servicing intervals along with a considerable reduction in noise. Additionally the new turbine will be effective in areas of lower average wind speed, which will extend significantly the geographical areas that will be able to take advantage of wind generated power.
We will complete our proof of concept project during 2012, and have already achieved our project goals by creating a viable proof of concept prototype. This purpose of this project was to demonstrate the performance of the blades and generator. Most of the turbine was made as a one-off, using manufacturing techniques that were not the production intent. This project has succeeded in giving us confidence that the turbine will meet expectations. We now wish to enter the development phase to enable us to build two full prototype turbines with different rotor configurations, perform a number of tests, conduct user trials and gather data in different conditions. In addition we will develop a battery charging controller for potential export markets.