taec™

Here's a selection of some of the questions that you may have. Please don't hesitate to contact us if you need any further information.
How much space do I need for a turbine?
You will need a land area at least 2.5 times the height of the mast, with a width at least 2 metres wider than the rotor. Guyed towers require more space. You will also need to take into consideration space for lorry access and for servicing which will usually require space to lower the mast.
How far away from the nearest building should it be sited?
Turbines should be sited at least 20m away from a building. The further away the larger the cable requirements.
Do turbines affect TV, Radio or Telecoms reception?
Turbines do not usually create any interference.
How noisy are the turbines?
Our wind turbines are designed to operate at low speeds so are quiet. They are direct drive, so have no gearbox noise. They make a quiet 'swishing' noise that is unlikely to be heard more than 50m away.
How can I calculate the wind speed at my site?
TAEC™ can help you measure the wind at your site. Alternatively you can install a small anemometer for 3 to 12 months to get an accurate assessment.
What wind speeds are required to make a turbine worth installing?
Provided the site is exposed to prevailing winds (and not obstructed by building or trees etc) a wind speed of 4-5m/s is generally sufficient.
What is the lowest and highest wind speed at which a turbine will generate electricity?
TAEC™ wind turbines start producing electricity at wind speeds of 2.5m/s. The flexible blade system enables the turbine to operate in even the fiercest wind conditions. As the wind speeds increase, the blades cone out of the wind enabling it to operate at an optimum speed and no faster.

On-grid or off-grid - what next?

Once you have decided on the best turbine for your location, you will need to consider grid connection. Renewable energy generators which produce electricity will normally be grid connected. Battery storage of electricity is an option on off-grid sites.
All generators must have an agreement from the local utility company to connect to the electricity grid. Even if it appears that the renewable electricity generator is connected into your house/building ring main, it is still “grid connected” as long as your property is grid connected. Renewable energy generators under 6kW will need a connection agreement called G83. Larger generators will need a connection agreement called G59.
Once the customer has forwarded their G83 or G59 application to their UC, it will be assessed and the UC will contact the customer regarding any upgrade of transformers or other costs involved. The Utility Company will then ask the customer to sign a “Generator Agreement”. The customer’s installer will also be required to complete a “Commissioning Form” to ensure that the renewable electricity generator has been installed safely. These should then be returned to your local utility company, who will in turn sign the appropriate agreements, and return to the customer for safekeeping.

How long will it take me to recoup my investment?
This will be determined by a number of factors. Including wind speeds at your site, the price you obtain for any surplus power or sale of ROC's and the availability of grants for your project. We expect a typical project to achieve payback within ten years.
What is the life span of a wind turbine?
You can expect your wind turbine to have a life span of about 20 to 25 years.
What warranty is offered?
All our turbines come with a standard 2-year warranty that can be extended to five years if preferred.
Do you offer a maintenance or service plan?
TAEC™ offer a range of competitively priced service / maintenance contracts. Please contact us for more information.