One potential problem for customers considering installing a small wind turbine is installation. Often sites with difficult or limited access would be unable to install a wind turbine without trackways or temporary roads to allow a large crane access. Now however, in co-operation with Segen, Gaia-Wind has developed an innovative tilt-up device that makes it possible to install a Gaia-Wind turbine without the use of a crane. All equipment can be taken to the site with a Manitou or a tractor, so that installation is easier, more efficient and with less disruption to property than ever before.
The tilt-up device consists of a hinge plate bolted to the bottom of the tower and some minor additions to the foundations, with a further foundation block necessary for the hydraulic winch. The gin pole, cables and winch are only used for installation purposes and do not have to be purchased by the customer. Once installation is complete, the turbine is maintained in the same way as a traditionally installed Gaia-Wind 133-11kw turbine, with access through the ladder at the side of the turbine into the working basket connected to the nacelle.