Turbines FAQ

FAQs & Fact Sheets

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about small wind energy systems. If you have other questions, please don't hesitate to contact us.

Will my turbine survive?

Do I have enough wind?

Is it true that Kingspan wind turbines never shut down?

Which is best between wind, solar and hydro?

FACT SHEETS

Will my turbine survive?

I hear that wind turbines do not survive in New Zealand.

This depends upon the quality of wind turbine you purchase. Kingspan turbines are designed to withstand extreme weather conditions as often experienced in New Zealand. Some of the problems that turbines experience are due not only to high winds but to shifting turbulent winds which can be incredibly destructive.

Kingspan turbines are designed and built in Scotland for very similar wind conditions. The blade design allows the turbine to operate in all wind conditions without over-speeding and to follow the shifting winds without suffering damage often experienced by other turbines.

Do I have enough wind?

In general terms for a wind turbine you need an average wind speed of at least 5m/s (10 Knots). There can be instances where lower winds can still make it worthwhile to use wind but you will need to have a good record of the wind speed distribution. If it is uncertain if you have enough wind we can carry out a series of site surveys starting with looking at the general wind speeds for your area and culminating in taking wind readings for a period of at least three months.

Is it true Kingspan Wind Turbines never shut down?

Yes, Kingspan turbines have been designed so that they never have to shut down or slow down for high wind speeds. The blade design allows it to continue generating at full power in high wind speeds when other turbines are having to shut down to protect themselves.

Which is best between Wind, Solar and Hydro?

Every situation is different and depends upon the amount of each type of resource available. Hydro is usually the most cost effective if there is enough water and a large enough head available. Wind outperforms solar with an average wind speed of about 5 - 6m/s or more. Off grid sites often benefit from a combination of generation sources to ensure there is greater likelihood of at least operating at any time.