FAQ

There is no limit to the number of windturbines that can be installed provided planning can be achieved. To obtain the maximum benefit for your investment the potential delivered electricity should match the base-load electrical consumption. There is no limit to the number of systems that can be installed however matching your electrical load demand or the Maximum Export Capacity (MEC) is the most economical situation.

Currently, we offer turbines from 55kW up to 3MW in size.

Turbines will generally start generating electricity at approximately 3 metres per second (m/s) with a reasonably constant wind flow. Higher speeds rapidly deliver more electricity. (Output varies with the 'cube' of the wind speed)

The maximum operating wind speed is approximately 25m/s above which the system will go into safe shutdown and stop generating through in-built control mechanisms.

There are several references available through the Worldwide Web, e.g. SEAI (Sustainable Energy Authority Ireland) http://maps.seai.ie/wind/

Turbines are 3-bladed and there is a degree of noise caused by wind-rush on the structure and by the blade tips cutting through the air. Customer feedback is positive, the sound often being described as a swishing sound. We provide a full wind noise modeling service. Look up the turbine specifications and manufacturer guidelines for details. To view a video clip that shows the impact of shadowflicker and noise click on this link http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eS5wL6Rxu8k

We regular service and maintenance wind turbines can achieve a life expectancy up to 25 years

Heavily worked or stressed units will require ultimately the most attention. Poor environmental conditions will affect the overall period before maintenance is required. Various levels of maintenance services are offered. For overall cost-effectiveness of the wind turbine, it is our aim to minimize as far as is practical, any additional 'on-costs' to the customer. It will however be necessary to agree on an annual maintenance agreement.

No, industrial sized turbines require a reference mains supply at all times.

Yes, we have experience of connecting industrial windturbines with diesel generating systems.

The windturbine goes into 'safe shutdown' and self-starts when the Grid supply is restored.

Any electricity that is being generated by the turbines, but not used by the factory, flows back into the grid. This feed back of power to the Grid is called 'spillage'. The 'spillage' from a wind turbine's power output is allowed under CER rules.

Yes, you will be paid for any power exported back to the Grid, up to 500kW.

Each 10kWh of electricity equates to about 4.5kg of CO2, 0.05kg of SO2 and 0.02kg of NO2.

No, an EIS study will ensure this will not happen.

All installations must follow the normal planning permission rules.

Zones of Visualisation are computer generated pictures of what the installation will look like from various surrounding vantage points. AZVI will be completed as part of an EIS study.

Yes, from initial feasibility through to commissioning. A full 25 year maintenance and project efficiency policy is also provided.

Yes, the turbines need power to keep them active. There will also be periods when the wind doesn't blow so power will be needed from the Grid.

Yes, Windturbines.ie will complete a full site survey and draft budget for a small fee. Any obvious reasons as to why planning may be refused will be identified at that time.

As stated, the planning process must be followed, however Government guidelines suggest that we must do more to reach our renewable energy targets and reduce our harmful emissions. Our in house planning experts give expert opinion on your chances of success before starting a project. It is advisable to check your relevant county plan for Renewable Energy Plans.

Yes, Windturbines.ie will bring you to visit working turbines once you show substantial commitment to a project.