These micro-wind generators are unique in that they are plugged directly into the mains through a standard three pin plug and can operate in wind speeds as low as three miles per hour. A cable leads directly from the turbine to a control box where electronics smooth out the variable electricity created by the wind power and convert it to match the mains frequency so it can be fed into the household mains. The turbine will stand about 8ft high on the roof of a property.

British Gas has signed an agreement with developers Windsave to market, install and maintain domestic wind turbines. Windsave, the company behind the idea, claims the turbines will pay for themselves in saved electricity costs in five to six years, supplying approximately a third of a home's required electricity.

The installation cost is around £1,500 but with Government grants from the Low Carbon Building Programme this could be reduced to £900-£1,000. There is also an annual grant of £60 a year to any organisation or individual generating more than half a kilowatt of electricity from green sources.

Sanctuary Housing Group projects:

Sanctuary Housing Association has met with British Gas and has viewed an operating domestic wind turbine installed at Daventry Visitor Centre by Daventry Council.

We also met with Scottish and Southern Energy to discuss their Swift turbine, which is a silent rooftop wind energy system. A decision has been made to pilot the Swift at Warmstry Court, a sheltered scheme in Worcester.

In June 2006, representatives from the Asset Management department (Worcester) visited the residents to explain about the turbine and what was involved. The residents were keen to go ahead and take part in the pilot.

Unfortunately the Conservation Department at Worcester City Council refused planning permission during a closed meeting we were not allowed to attend.

Dundee City Council embrace new technology and we are now looking to install a Proven turbine on a sheltered scheme in Dundee.

Renewable Energy links: