How much do these systems cost?

Turbine systems costs vary depending on a number of factors. For a given suitable site the choice of turbine and supplier are the key factors which lead to a successful installation and a positive experience. It is possible to source seemingly inexpensive turbines on the internet from manufacturers in Asia but, without a local support network, if something does fail it could be very difficult to get the system up and running. If the turbine turns out to be of poor quality or not robust enough to cope with a high wind speed event it may be a wasted investment. Grid connected turbine systems generally range from approximately €20,000 to €30,000 for a 6kW unit and from €10,000 to €20,000 for a 3kW unit. A 1kW grid connected unit can cost from €3,000 to €7,000.

The cost per kW is usually inversely proportional to the size of the unit i.e. as the unit size increases the price per kW decreases. That is why a 5kW unit is not double the price of a 2.5kW unit from the same range for example. Suppliers will be able to provide you with indicative cost for the installation or cost of equipment alone prior to giving you an exact quote for your requirements and location.

The cost of the same system installed in two different locations may be slightly different due to the ground conditions, access, location, etc. Adding battery storage adds significant cost depending on the amount of energy which is required to be stored.

Once installed, the source of power - the wind - is free. Electricity produced by the turbine is not free however as the turbine has an initial cost as well as ongoing costs which must be recovered during its lifetime. The turbine recovers these costs by producing electricity which does not have to be sourced on the grid.

Maintenance costs are an important factor to consider when deciding on which turbine to purchase. As a rule of thumb, maintenance could cost about 2%-3% of the initial capital cost annually. In principle, good quality turbines have a working life of around 20 years but their actual life expectancy depends very much on a variety of factors such as local wind and atmospheric conditions (e.g. coastal air, turbulence). The strain on a turbine is much higher where turbulent winds are frequent. Maintenance requirements can be less demanding if the turbine is of a higher quality.

A further cost is that of insurance. Home and business owners should contact their insurer to discuss the implications of installing a turbine and mast. It may be advisable to insurance on the wind system itself and also for any accidents due to the wind system. The planning guidelines ensure that a correctly sited turbine is unlikely to cause damage to property within or outside the boundary of the premises.