A study on the power extraction by two small–scale wind turbines operating in the built environment

Abstract

A multitude of reasons have driven efforts across the globe to diversify the energy generation mix with renewable energy sources. Wind energy is one of the leading contenders. Small scale wind turbines are increasingly seen as offering potential. However they face challenges that are distinct from those of large scale systems. Different small scale wind turbine designs are available on the market. This paper studies the power extraction by two small–scale wind turbines; a horizontal– axis model and a vertical–axis model, operating in the built environment. Both turbines are grid connected, albeit through a different converter configuration. Concurrent experimental data is captured and the performance of the two wind turbines is compared. It is seen that the efficiency of the drag type vertical axis wind turbine is significantly lower than that of the horizontal axis wind turbine and that the use of a wind inverter allows for improved energy capture.