How a Wind Turbine Works
On-Grid System
Wind turbines use blades to catch the wind. When the wind blows the blades are forced round, driving a turbine, which generates electricity. The stronger the wind, the more electricity is produced.
The wind turbine links to the existing mains electricity supply via an inverter. This is connected to the distribution board. The inverter transforms the electricity generated by the turbine into mains voltage AC to power household appliances and lighting.
The inverter also performs various safety functions, constantly monitoring the grid and will switch off in the event of a fault or major fluctuation in supply. During a longer power failure, the turbine’s energy can be diverted into heaters. When power is restored, the wind generator will automatically feed the house again.
Electricity generated by the turbine is used within the building first and any surplus is fed to the Grid via an Ofgem approved meter, which records the exported energy. When there is no wind, supplies are taken from the National Grid in the normal way.
Stand-alone or Off-Grid System
Traditionally a battery bank is charged from a diesel generator and AC supplied to the building by a grid forming inverter. Integrating a wind turbine into the system can substantially reduce or, in our case, almost eliminate the operating cost of such a system
