"Micro" Wind Turbines Fail to Live Up to Expectations

The Massachusetts Renewable Energy Trust commissioned a study last year to review actual output from 21 small wind turbines around the state. The data showed that real production versus the turbines' estimated production was about 1/3.

In other words, the "expected" power delivery the turbines promise is three times higher than what they really delivered. The Trust has changed its rebate program for small wind production installments.

The performance issues were due to various things, most of which weren't about the units themselves. Because of their small size, "micro" wind turbines (turbines which produce less than 10kW) are both popular and easily mis-placed.

No, not lost, but put in the wrong place. With wind turbines, it's all about LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION.

This is illustrated by some of what the study found. Turbines placed on the roof at Logan airport and some other open-area spots were performing at or better than spec. The problem is obstruction and misjudged wind currents.

Many of these smaller turbines, even those installed by professionals, are placed in areas where the wind performs differently 100 feet in the air than it does at 20 or 30 feet (on top of a house) and on the ground. Just because it's primarily blowing SSW on the ground doesn't mean it's doing the same 30-50 feet up. Structures, buildings, trees, etc. can change the "current" and usually do.

So there ya go. I'm a big fan of rooftop-mounted turbines for those who can use them, but it definitely pays to get the $150 kit and test your installation spot before you buy or install that new generator!