Possible grants for Wind Energy

In last year’s and this today’s economical crises, many people were trying to lower the costs of living in order to save some money. Lowering the bills is always a great idea, if this thing is possible. Many of them wanted to install small, household wind turbines, and wanted to know whether this solution is possible. Well, small wind turbines are actually ideal for householders, communities and small businesses. There is range of different types of small turbines and thanks to their flexibility, they can be easily installed in most locations. The only problem could be your individual site specifics, such as location, wind speed and local landscape.

United Kingdom
Now, something about the prices of wind turbines. The price of small wind turbines depends on the size and type of a model you buy. Generally speaking, the Government’s Clear Skies Grants Programme estimates that typical small system costs are 2,500 – 5,000£ per kW capacity installed. It is estimated that and average 1 – 1.5kW model will cost around 1,000£ per kW capacity installed. The cost of large, megawatt scale, wind turbines is today about 800£ per kW capacity.

Thanks to Government’s grant, this thing could be so much easier. In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, Government’s Clear Skies Programme offers grants for households and community. Grants are offered for 1,000£ per kW installed, up to maximum of 5,000£. The minimum size of installations under this scheme is 0.5kW. Installations larger then 5kW are allowable but capacity above that will not receive a grant. There are also several alternative projects, such as Low Carbon Buildings Progamme or The Scottish Community Renewables Initiative in Scotland. The Rural Enterprise Scheme provides assistance for projects that help to develop rural economies and communities. Besides this, some energy supply companies have grants available for community projects. Still, if you’re not eligible for any funding options, you should consider a loan. Today, there are several banks which offer loans specifically for renewable energy projects.