Wind energy is safe, popular, and effective for generating electricity and reducing carbon emissions. In the UK we have 40% of Europe’s total wind energy – the largest potential wind energy resource in Europe. The climate in the UK is ideal for generating energy from wind, however a number of concerns are often raised when Britain is faced with harsh conditions in winter. The two main concerns in periods of colder weather are performance and safety.
Performance
One concern that is often raised is the fear that small wind turbines are not producing enough energy at the time of peak consumption, which in the UK and Europe is over the winter months. However research in France has provided conclusions to the contrary.
Analysis of the energy generated during the six winter months in 2005 and 2006 in France gives conclusive evidence that “not only do wind turbines function effectively but they produce statistically 10% more in winter that during the rest of the year” (source). The Gaia-Wind 133-11kW wind turbine has been specifically designed for use in moderate wind speed areas and generates better value than any of its competitors in these conditions. To ensure that your site can deliver optimum results, check the average annual wind speed in your area by following this link.
Safety
Another common concern during the coldest periods in the UK is safety. Occasionally there may be strong winds and winter gales in the British Isles; however the Gaia-Wind 133-11kW turbine is protected by a number of safety features and has been rigorously tested in all conditions. With Gaia-Wind’s 20 years of operational experience our turbines benefit from all the safety features of an industrial wind turbine. To find out more about safety, click here.
Another problem in winter is ice and snow. One remote risk is the build up of ice on the turbine blades, with the ice subsequently being thrown. Even in the most extreme cases in the UK the amount of ice build up is likely to be minimal, due to the wind speed and movement at of the rotors. It is also recommended that wind turbines are installed at least X distance away from regularly used paths and roads, and the installation team will work with you to ensure optimal levels of safety.
Reliability and Control
Wind Turbines are designed to operate in all weathers, and the Gaia-Wind 133-11kW turbine is accredited by a number of governing bodies including the Danish HB Standards and UK Clear Skies accreditations. As for controlling your wind turbine in winter, Gaia-Wind supply online monitoring and the system can be observed from any internet connected device allowing you to check the energy production and the operational status of your Gaia-Wind turbine without going outside.
Installation
Gaia-Wind turbines can be installed at any time of the year, and if you decide to install a Gaia-Wind 133-11kW turbine during the winter period then we will ensure that a suitable schedule is set so that we can guarantee safety and efficiency when delivering your turbine.
