Turbine Location
The turbine location is a very important factor in the overall performance of your small wind turbine system. Good site selection will maximise the power that your turbine will be able to deliver. Installing a wind turbine in a bad position is similar to installing a solar panel system in the shade – it will not maximise the performance of your investment.
The total amount of energy available in the wind increases dramatically with small increases in wind speed, therefore it is very important that you site your turbine in the best possible position.
The proposed installation site for your wind turbine must have a good average wind speed of a minimum 4.0m/s (9mph) and low wind turbulence. Wind turbulence is caused by obstructions to the wind such as trees and buildings. Excessive turbulence will hamper the performance of your turbine and may cause the turbine to ‘hunt’ the wind. Small wind turbines operate best in steady airflows. Free flowing airstreams are more consistent in direction and wind speed that results in more overall power being generated by the wind turbine system. Gusty conditions often result in a turbine ‘hunting’ the wind, reducing the amount of overall power generated. Gusty and turbulent conditions also exert fluctuating forces upon the turbine that can reduce the reliability and lifespan of the system.
Wind shadowing and barriers:
Wind barriers are simply obstacles that impede the flow of the wind (such as trees and buildings). A large ‘wake’ of turbulent airflow will occur for a long distance downwind of a barrier. It is not desirable to locate a turbine in this zone.
Topography:
For areas of undulating ground, the turbine should be installed on the highest possible position avoiding wind barriers and turbulence. For areas that are generally flat, the turbine can be installed in any position. Installing the tower on a hillside makes the setting of the guy wires more difficult and extra installation time should be planned. Where possible, the tilt-up action of the tower should run in the direction of the hill.
Surface roughness of the ground:
Long grass, crops or bushes will have the effect of slowing the wind down (even at the height of the tower). Try to install your turbine where the ground is smooth to increase the overall power production of the system.
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