ᐅ Micro wind turbines for single-family homes?

Since our solar thermal system is currently bringing me a lot of satisfaction, I would like to continue exploring renewable energy options and would find it helpful to receive information from you about micro wind turbines (I am not mentioning any specific company to avoid violating the forum’s advertising rules) for single-family homes, or to hear about your practical experiences with them. I am still at the very beginning.

As some of you may already know, our two-person single-family home (postal code 045xx) was built only to meet the minimum energy-saving regulations, because we did not understand the requirements, incentives, calculations, etc. for a more energy-efficient house. However, we would now like to explore further steps and currently have more free time than during the building planning phase.

Thanks in advance.

Pinkiponk schrieb:

Has anyone received information about micro wind turbines (I am not mentioning any specific company to avoid violating the advertising ban in this forum) for single-family homes or have any practical experience with them? I am still at the very beginning.

Practical experience from a neighbor who is into renewable energy (including two off-grid systems with storage plus "standard" photovoltaic panels). He purchased such a wind turbine a few years ago.

Conclusion: purely a hobby for a green conscience.

Why is that?

1. You need an exposed location to get the turbine running properly (but this applies to any wind turbine).
2. The turbines are not really micro and produce noise—in any case, this removes the common complaint about noisy heat pumps. 😉
3. In terms of efficiency, they are inferior to photovoltaic systems. So, relative to size and cost, you only get a small output.

All in all, better to invest in a north-facing photovoltaic system than in micro wind turbines.

I find this topic interesting and did some research on it. The general consensus is that photovoltaic systems are clearly better. Photovoltaics are significantly more cost-effective and predictable for comparable output (since the sun shines during the day). Additionally, photovoltaics have no moving parts that require maintenance or can break.

Then there is the issue with wind turbines themselves. Close to the ground, you have turbulence caused by trees, neighboring houses, etc., which reduces wind speeds. If mounted on the house, you might experience vibrations (moving parts again), and it’s much easier to run into building permit/planning permission issues and conflicts with neighbors.

Since you don’t have photovoltaics installed yet, I would suggest focusing on that option first, possibly considering facade-mounted photovoltaics or panels on the garage or garden shed if your remaining roof space is too limited.

This is how it can look. Power output just over 1kW – when there is enough wind. Mounted on a pole. A few years ago, if I remember correctly, it cost over €2,500 (approx. $2,500). However, it produces less annually than a comparable solar panel.

There are now the new ones from Spain and the USA. I am really looking forward to those...

I understand that, compared to photovoltaics, it is not economically viable, so I would probably refrain from it. Even though I am a fan of renewable energy.
But I have to say, the wind turbine does look quite cute. 😀