PHL’s Wind Turbine

In April 2010 we installed a 6kW Wind Turbine. Our fourth year report is as follows:

Action & Summary

2013/14 Year 4 2012 Year 3 2011 Year 2 2010/11 Year 1 Comments
Total no of kW generated 9119 kWh 9486 kWh 9099 kWh 7761 kWh About average
% of theoretical max annual output 17.3% 18.6% 17.3% 15% As expected
Total revenue generated/saved this year £4,043 £3,376 £3,279 £2,739 Rising feed-in tariff and increased production
% return on cost 14.9% 12.5% 12.17% 10% Better than expected
% of total cost paid back 49.8% 34.8% 22.2% 10.1% Improving
Revised est total payback period 8 Yrs 9 Yrs 9 Yrs 9 Yrs Reduced slightly

Comment

The turbine has generated more than we expected, overall 2010 was a ‘poor’ year for wind. 2011 was approximately 15% better and 2012 better still. The-Feed In Tariff increased in line with inflation. We are pleased to report no faults or defects and apart from two services the turbine has not been shut off for any reason. The payback is on track and is making about a 12% return on investment. Recent falls in electricity prices will reduce the nominal revenue but the FIT payment has increased to circa 31p/kWh 2014/15.

Sustainability

Installing the turbine and the photovoltaic system is a big step towards meeting our sustainability targets. The onsite energy generation will ensure our offices are predominantly powered by renewable energy. We have installed a Ground Source Heat Pump in the adjoining field. We now use most of our surplus electricity. The oil tank and kerosene fuelled boiler has been removed. We hope our turbine will encourage local businesses and residents to consider microgeneration projects of their own.

Turbine Details

  • 6kW rated Proven 11 Energy Wind Turbine
  • 15m self-supporting mast
  • 5.5m rotor diameter
  • 3 downwind, self-regulating blades
  • 3 Windy Boy inverters

Basic Financial Details

  • Price £27,150 + VAT
  • Feed in tariff 26.7p/kWh generated
  • 3p/kWh exported to the Grid
  • Expected payback in 7-8 years
  • 7,000-8,000 kWh estimated annual output
  • Estimated 120% of office requirements (actual is nearer 150%)

Solar PV Installation Details

  • 4kWp Solar Panels Samsung 250W x 16
  • 3 Sunny Boy Inverters 1.2kW each
  • Installed February 2012
  • Cost circa £11,400 + VAT
  • Payback estimate 6 years
  • Installed by GHE Solar, Newbury

Ground Source Heat Pump Details

  • Dimplex 22 kW Heat Pump
  • 800 m ground loop
  • Installed January 2013
  • Cost circa £13,000 + VAT
  • Payback estimate 6 years
  • Installed by GHE Solar, Newbury

If you are interested in discussing a microgeneration project of your own or for further details on ours, contact us.

Photograph of Wind Turbine