04 September 2012

Pint-sized wind turbine to qualify for feed-in tariff
A diminutive wind turbine, unveiled last week, is the first in the UK less than 5kW to qualify for the Feed-In Tariff (FIT).

The 3.5kW, class one wind turbine is able to withstand 156mph winds and could generate £1,000 for owners annually.

According to its manufacturer Kestrel, the wind turbine known as the e400nb, can produce 3,922kWh annually, which with the FIT scheme paying 28p per kWh produced, would enable owners to make £1,098 per year.

Kestrel claims the e400nb, which has a rotor diameter of 4m and an overall length of 3m, is ideal for homes or small businesses because of its compact size.

According to Kestrel, base dimensions, tower height and consequential footprint and maintenance schedule all increase the larger the turbine. The company claims that their more manageable e400nb requires no regular maintenance for many years other than visual inspection.

Kestrel director Leon Gouws said: "Solid returns from renewable energy, new technology and improved Government incentives, makes it easier to become less reliant on fossil fuels. The UK Government's target for 20 per cent of the energy to be produced from renewable sources by 2020, and the certification process means people can support this vision, with knowledge their turbine is robust enough to withstand the toughest of winds, and is reliable to ensure consistent energy production."

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