wind turbine
Wind Turbines vs. Solar Panels in Pakistan Which Is Right for You? Nowadays, many people are opting for renewable sources of energy, and one of the trending ones is wind turbines. If you are thinking of installing a wind turbine, we recommend you read this article before making a decision.
After reading this article, you will be able to decide more easily whether you should install wind turbines or not. We will also compare solar systems vs. wind turbines so you can understand which system is better suited to your requirements. The information provided is based on years of experience with both systems.
Let’s start by understanding the types of wind turbines. There are two main types used around the world: Vertical Axis Wind Turbines (VAWT) and Horizontal Axis Wind Turbines (HAWT). Horizontal Axis Wind Turbines are the most widely used due to their greater efficiency.
Five years ago, I installed a Horizontal Axis Wind Turbine to work alongside a solar system for generating electricity at night, but it hasn’t been very effective. The turbine can produce a maximum of 1.2 kW, but only if the wind speed is 40 km/h.
Here you may have a questions is this turbine has met my expectations and how much electricity it actually produces. If it hasn’t been effective, why have I kept it installed?
Several factors affect the turbine’s performance, including its location, local wind speed, nearby buildings, and its height. In my case, the turbine is in a residential area of Karachi and is 27 feet high, which results in an average output of just 200 to 300 watts.
Based on my experience, here are the drawbacks of having wind turbines:
Since childhood, I have been passionate about building wind turbines. I’ve conducted various experiments, including turning a ceiling fan into a wind turbine, converting a ceiling fan motor into a permanent magnet alternator, and making wooden blades. In 2019, I ordered a wind turbine from China, and its price has now exceeded 300,000 rupees.
These challenges, particularly in populated areas, make it difficult to maximize electricity generation from wind turbines. They are more effective when installed in open areas away from populated places, where the average wind speed exceeds 30 km/h. Coastal areas of Pakistan and the Jhimpir region could be better locations for such turbines.
Here, I’m comparing solar systems with wind turbines to find out which system is better to install and provides better results.
When considering installing a wind turbine, keep these factors in mind:
Consistency of Wind: Wind speed and consistency are crucial. Even if wind speed is sufficient, inconsistency can affect efficiency.
Height of the Turbine: A higher turbine captures more wind, increasing power production.
Weather Conditions: Wind turbines need to withstand various weather conditions, including strong winds, rain, and storms.
Government Regulations and Approvals: Installation may require approvals from government agencies, especially in urban areas.
Horizontal Axis Wind Turbine (HAWT): More efficient and widely used. Vertical Axis Wind Turbine (VAWT): Less efficient but better suited for urban areas due to lower noise and reduced risk to birds.
I aimed to share my experiences in this article, hoping the information will be helpful to you. While solar panels are generally cheaper, more durable, and often a better choice, wind turbines can be advantageous in certain situations.
Through experimenting with different wind turbine models and designs, I’ve learned that the best type of wind turbine depends on the specific location. For successful installation, consider factors such as weather conditions, wind speed, and turbine height to select the appropriate model.
Both wind turbines and solar panels have their own advantages and disadvantages. When deciding, consider your needs, budget, and local conditions. While wind turbines may prove better in some situations, generally, solar panels are more durable and cheaper. I hope this article has provided you with valuable information and helped you make a better decision.
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Reed this article in Urdu کیا آپ ونڈ ٹربائن لگانے کا سوچ رہے ہیں؟ اس سے پہلے یہ آرٹیکل ضرور پڑھ لیں۔ - سائنس, ٹیکنالوجی ارٹیکل اردو میں (paksc.org)