What is a household wind turbine? Everything you need to know
At Solid Energy we often explain it this way: Imagine a smaller version of the large wind turbines in the fields — just adapted to your home and energy consumption. It is a long-term investment that contributes to a greener future.
What is a household wind turbine?
A household wind turbine is a turbine that is erected adjacent to detached properties with the primary purpose of providing energy for the property's own consumption — either as electricity or hot water. It's your very own power generator which helps make you more self-sufficient in power.
In Denmark, the Danish Energy Agency's “Initiative Committee for the Deployment of Small Wind Turbines” has defined the household turbine as a turbine with:
- A maximum height of 25 meters from foundation to upper wing tip
- A rotor diameter of up to 13 meters
- A maximum power of 25 kilowatts
Common sizes of household wind turbines
The most widely used household wind turbines in Denmark are available in the following sizes:
- 5 kW wind turbines: Suitable for small households with moderate energy consumption
- 10 kW wind turbines: Ideal for average Danish families
- 25 kW wind turbines: Designed for larger properties or small businesses
At Solid Energy we produce 10 kW and 25 kW small wind turbines that are developed specifically for Danish wind conditions.
How does a household wind turbine work?
A wind turbine converts the wind's energy of motion into electricity through a process in which the rotation of the wings drives a generator. Let's take a closer look at this technology.
The technology behind the wind turbine
In short, a wind turbine produces power by rotating the wings and the wind turbine acts as a transducer, which is a component designed to convert wind energy into electrical energy. The process takes place in four main steps:
- Wind collection: The wings have an aerodynamic shape with a flat side facing the wind, creating the necessary pressure for rotation
- Rotor movement: The rotor, with typically three wings, catches the wind and rotates at about 22 revolutions per minute
- Speed increase: There are a lot of large and small cogs inside the gearbox that make sure that the revolutions of the main axis are multiplied to about 1000 revolutions per minute
- Power Generation: The generator creates power using electromagnetic induction, in which a magnet is rotated around a chamber with coils
The aerodynamic advantage
What makes the wings so effective is their special shape. The wings of the wind turbine have a flat side and a curved side, just like the wings of an airplane. The flat side faces outwards to the wind, which pushes the wings into motion. When the wind blows, a negative pressure is created on the curved side of the wing, giving the wing extra speed and efficiency.
Did you know that: A household wind turbine can reduce your CO2 emissions by up to 40 tons annually!
Advantages of household wind turbines
Household wind turbines offer several significant advantages compared to other energy solutions.
Environmental benefits
- Significant CO2 reduction and contribution to the phase-out of fossil fuels
- Harnessing wind as an inexhaustible source of energy
Economic benefits
- Reduced electricity costs through self-generation
- Increased property value on sale
Practical benefits
- Constant energy production in windy weather
- Long service life of 20-25 years or more
Price levels for household wind turbines
The price of a household wind turbine varies significantly depending on the size, quality and complexity of installation.
The prices listed below are illustrative examples only.
5 kW household wind turbine:
- Wind turbine: 6.000 GBP.
- Installation and setup: 1.200 GBP.
- Mains connection: 600 GBP.
- Total price: 7.500 GBP.
10 kW household wind turbine
Total price incl. installation and connection: 11.500 GBP.
Savings and payback
If you get permission by the municipality, and you build a windmill, you have the opportunity to connect to the net metering system. It has been possible to connect since 2010 if you have invested in green energy sources.
That means you actually get to let the electricity meter run backwards. All the electricity you produce via solar cell or household wind turbine and that you do not consume yourself runs in the electricity grid. This saving of electricity can be used when the turbine is not producing enough.
Basic requirements and rules for household wind turbines
You cannot simply buy and install a household wind turbine without a permit, as there are regulations for household wind turbines. Accordingly the project requires both thorough planning and approval from the municipality.
Permissions
Before setting up you need to acquire:
- Building permit (if you live in an urban area)
- Land zone permit + building permit (if you live in country zone)
The building permit ensures that the mill complies with local building regulations, while the land zoning permit must protect the existing landscape.
Location and distances
There are also rules regarding where the turbine is allowed to stand:
- Maximum 20—25 meters from the dwelling
- Min. 300 meters to larger forests and churches
- Typically 4—10 meters to the nearest neighboring house (depends on noise)
Why choose Solid Energy for your household wind turbine?
At Solid Energy we specialize in the development of market-leading small wind turbines specifically designed for Danish wind conditions. We produce both 10 kW and 25 kW turbines in Denmark with a focus on quality and reliability.
Our range includes three configurations of SWP 25 kW models: O-Design for private households with a focus on noise reduction, T-Design built for high wind loads, and TF design with fixed grid mast for optimal height placement. In addition, we offer SWP 10 kW O-Design optimized for lower wind classes.
All turbines are certified according to international standards and are supplied as turnkey solutions. We offer comprehensive service and maintenance agreements that typically run over 10 years with the possibility of extension up to 15-20 years, ensuring optimal performance throughout the life of the wind turbine.
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+ mills
Over 1000 installations in the world. Designed according to the strictest international standards.
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countries
From Greenland and Europe to Japan and alpine terrain at 2500+ meters altitude.
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tons of CO2
Our turbines reduce the user's CO₂ footprint by 40 tonnes per year per turbine.
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
How much power does a household wind turbine produce?
It depends on the wind conditions and the size of the turbine. A 10 kW mill can typically produce 15,000-25,000 kWh annually in good wind conditions.
How noisy is a household wind turbine?
Modern turbines are designed for minimal noise. Solid Energy's turbines comply with all Danish noise requirements.
Can I install a wind turbine myself?
No. Installation must be done by certified professionals to ensure safety and regulatory compliance.