Wind Turbine Installation Guide

Written-by

Janet Richardson

Reviewed-by

Richard Burdett-Gardiner

Updated on

Sep 04, 2024

Wind Turbine Installation Guide

How is a wind turbine installed?

The length and complexity of the installation process depends upon the size and type of wind turbine. Prior to any installation it is necessary to commission a technical survey of your site and monitor local windspeeds over a period of time (at least 3 months). (Click to enlarge)

Wind Turbine Project Stages Chart

Pole mounted domestic wind turbine

Foundation preparation and installation

Depending on the size and type of turbine system, this may require heavy machinery such as an excavator and crane. It is usually necessary to wait for a period of at least 2 weeks after the laying of foundations in order to allow the concrete base to cure. If a building-mounted system is being installed, it may be necessary to have your property’s roof strengthened so that it can bear the weight of the turbine.

Digging of trenches

Trenches need to be dug for the electrical cables which run from the turbine to the control unit and inverter.

Erection of tower and turbine

Depending on the turbine size, this may require use of a crane.

Electrical wiring

An electrical engineer or electrician will connect the wind turbines DC output to the control box and then the inverter. The AC output from the inverter will be connected to your property’s electricity supply and the electricity grid. Other electrical components such as isolators are installed for safety, and an Ofgem-approved generation meter will be placed after the inverter.

Connection to electricity grid

In order to connect the wind turbine system to the grid, your installer will liaise with your local District Network Operator (DNO).

Roof mounted wind turbine

Installing a roof-mounted wind turbine in the UK requires careful planning, adherence to local regulations, and professional expertise. The process typically involves the following steps:

• Site Assessment: A qualified installer conducts a thorough assessment of the property to determine its suitability for a roof-mounted wind turbine. Factors such as wind speed, local obstructions, and the structural integrity of the roof are evaluated.
• Obtaining Permissions: In the UK, planning permission is often required for wind turbine installations. The installer helps the homeowner with the application process, ensuring compliance with local regulations and addressing any potential concerns from neighbors.
• Turbine Selection: Based on the site assessment and energy needs, an appropriate wind turbine model is chosen. Roof-mounted turbines are typically smaller and more compact to suit residential settings.
• Preparing the Roof: The roof must be prepared to support the additional weight and forces generated by the turbine. Reinforcements, such as brackets or frames, may be installed to ensure a secure fit.
• Electrical Connections: An electrician connects the turbine to the property's electrical system, allowing for power generation and integration with the grid if desired.
• Testing and Commissioning: After installation, the turbine is thoroughly tested to ensure proper functioning and safety compliance.
• Maintenance and Monitoring: Regular maintenance is crucial to maximize the turbine's efficiency and lifespan. Monitoring systems may also be installed to track energy production.

Overall, a well-executed roof-mounted wind turbine installation in the UK can provide sustainable energy and contribute to reducing the property's carbon footprint.

Final checks

Your installer should perform final electrical safety and performance checks before commissioning the system, and provide you with the necessary documentation (manuals, warranties, maintenance information).

MCS registration

The installer should also register your turbine system with the Microgeneration Certification Scheme.

A list of regional DNOs is available here