Small and medium-sized wind turbines: pioneers of green power in the field of distributed energy
Small and medium-sized wind turbines typically refer to wind power equipment with a power of less than 500 kilowatts that provides electricity to households, farms, communities, small businesses, microgrids, or off grid facilities.
Small wind turbines: usually referring to models ranging from 1 kW to 10 kW, mainly used for off grid or grid connected residential buildings, small farms, etc.
Medium sized wind turbines: usually referring to models ranging from 10 kW to 500 kW, mainly used in communities, schools, small and medium-sized enterprises, communication base stations, agricultural irrigation, etc.
(Note: Sometimes, those below 1kW are referred to as "micro", while those above 100kW are classified as "large".)
The main structural types include horizontal axis wind turbines and vertical axis wind turbines.
Horizontal axis wind turbine, with the rotor rotation axis parallel to the ground, similar to a large wind turbine. Mature technology and high efficiency in wind energy utilization make it the mainstream in the market. Usually there is a tail rudder or active yaw system, which needs to be aligned with the wind direction, has relatively high noise, and is installed at a high height.
Vertical axis wind turbine, with the rotor rotation axis perpendicular to the ground. No need for wind, can capture wind in any direction. Low operating noise, easy to maintain. The efficiency of wind energy utilization is generally lower than the horizontal axis.
A complete small and medium-sized wind power generation system typically includes a wind turbine, including a generator, blades, hub, and fuselage, with a rudder/yaw system used for horizontal axis wind turbines to maintain alignment with the wind direction. Tower supports wind turbines at high altitudes to obtain stronger and more stable winds. The control system is responsible for monitoring the startup, shutdown, safety, and operational status of the system. Energy storage system (for off grid systems), storing excess electrical energy for use in the absence of wind. The inverter has an off grid inverter that converts the DC power from the battery into AC power for household appliances. There is a grid connected inverter that converts the electricity generated by wind turbines into alternating current of the same frequency and phase as the grid, and delivers it to the grid.
The application scenarios of small and medium-sized wind turbines include off grid applications and grid connected applications. Off grid application for communication base stations: providing power to mobile communication base stations in remote areas. Road monitoring: supplying power to monitoring equipment for highways and tunnels. Agricultural and animal husbandry applications: such as electric fences for pastures, irrigation for farmland, power supply for fishing boats, etc. Outdoor and emergency: RV, camping, disaster emergency power supply. Grid connected applications for commercial users: installing medium power wind turbines in factories, parks, etc. to reduce electricity costs, self use, and connecting surplus electricity to the grid. School and Community: As a popular science education and green energy demonstration project.
The advantage of small and medium-sized wind turbines lies in distributed energy, which can generate electricity on-site and reduce long-distance transmission losses. Zero carbon emissions are clean energy. It can form a wind solar complementary system with solar photovoltaics to improve power supply reliability. The grid connected system can offset some or all of the electricity consumption of the power grid.
The limitations of small and medium-sized wind turbines are that they typically require an annual average wind speed of no less than 4-5 meters per second, and the site is open and unobstructed. The initial investment is relatively high, and the equipment itself and installation (especially the tower) costs are expensive.
The wind speed and direction are variable, and the output power is unstable; May cause noise interference to nearby residents.
If you are considering installing a small to medium-sized wind turbine, you need to evaluate wind resources: use professional equipment to measure data for at least one year, or query local meteorological information. This is the most crucial step. Calculate electricity demand: Clarify your electricity load and consumption to determine how much power wind turbines are needed. Choose the appropriate type: Based on your needs and environment, choose a horizontal or vertical axis fan. Site inspection: Ensure there is sufficient open space and keep it away from obstacles such as buildings and trees. Understanding regulations: Consult the local government regarding building permits, height restrictions, noise regulations, and grid connection policies. Choose reliable brands and installers: Choose certified and reputable products and a professional installation team to ensure safety and after-sales service. Economic analysis: Calculate the investment return period, taking into account equipment costs, installation fees, maintenance fees, and saved electricity/subsidies.
Small and medium-sized wind turbines are powerful tools for achieving energy self-sufficiency and green living, especially suitable for areas with good wind resources and inconvenient power grids. However, it is not a universal solution that benefits from installation, and its success highly depends on careful evaluation and professional installation and maintenance in the early stages. Before making a decision, please make sure to conduct thorough research and preparation.
