Berlin.
Solar panels are not an option for everyone. Are mini wind turbines a sensible alternative? We looked at a model.
The war in Ukraine and the one it triggered gas conflict with Russia has made the topics of energy and heating the center of attention. The rapid increase in gas and heating oil prices has made many people aware of Germany’s strong dependence on Russia – and highlighted the serious disadvantages.
As a result of this development, the term “autonomous” repeatedly cropped up in debates about the current energy and heat transition. Its meaning: make yourself autonomous from the public energy supply and live independently of it.
Windmill instead of balcony power plant: mini power plants for the home – these options are available
This is difficult for many consumers to achieve on a large scale – but it is even with small investments you can live at least partially self-sufficient. The balcony power plant is one of those small investments.
It consists of one or two small solar modules and can be attached to the balcony parapet or in the Garden to be attached. Depending on their size, the small photovoltaic systems can provide up to 600 watts (W) of power and partially cover the electricity requirement in the home on sunny days.
The cost of a balcony power plant should be around 700 euros or less. In many municipalities there is even a state subsidy for new balcony power plants – in some cases up to 50 percent of the costs are covered.
However, a balcony power plant is not an option for everyone – it is one if there is insufficient solar radiation mini power plant less suitable. In this case, another form of mini power plant could be interesting: a wind turbine. At first glance, one thinks of the large turbines on highways.
Start-up from Iceland sells mini wind turbines: Kraftwerk surprises with bizarre design
But the classic windmill is also available in small format. The Icelandic energy start-up “IceWind” has specialized in this type of energy production. “Freya” is the name of the wind turbine – it can theoretically also be used in the home garden.
The manufacturer originally made the mini pinwheels for remote regions designed. In these places, the self-sufficient power supply is essential for survival. There – according to the idea – the mini wind turbines could work in combination with solar systems and electricity storage.
“IceWind” promises “network-connected and network-independent applications”, both are possible. There are currently three variants to choose from mini pinwheels According to the manufacturer, all should be extremely robust and able to withstand strong weather and wind conditions.
This is primarily due to the rather unusual design of the small power plants. At first glance, this resembles a space probe with its vertical axes and, in addition to its contribution to the power supply add a futuristic touch to any garden.
Mini windmill for generating energy: This is how much the small power plant from Iceland costs
The advantage of the construction: The mini wind turbines are no danger to birds and insects. However, such wind turbines have been reported by “EFAHRER.com” according to proven in the past to be less efficient – at least compared to classic models. In contrast to the balcony power plant, the mini pinwheels from “IceWind” also significantly more expensive. Around 6,000 euros are due for the grid-connected variant – up to 6,500 euros for the grid-autonomous.
For comparison: you can buy simple balcony power plants from 300 euros. In addition, the small mini solar systems can also be built by yourself with a little skill. Consumers only have to be careful with the output of balcony power plants – especially in combination with older power lines in the house, it can be dangerous. Otherwise there are hardly any legal hurdles. Quite different with mini wind turbines – for these you need a building permit from a height of ten meters.
Energy and heat transition: heat pump vs. gas and oil heating – the prices
| Heating | Costs in EUR |
|
oil heating |
from about 8,000 |
|
gas heating |
from about 7,000 |
|
heat pump |
from about 15,000 |
|
Wood or pellet heating |
from about 10,000 |
|
district heating |
from about 5,000 |
Mini wind turbines in the garden: is that allowed? Consumers have to comply with regulations
According to information from “www.klein-windkraftanlagen.com” there are also different requirements to be observed in the individual federal states – “IceWind” also currently only sells its mini wind turbines in Iceland and North America. consumer in Germany can rely on products from other manufacturers. On Amazon, for example, you can find wind-powered mini power plants from around 350 euros – more expensive models with more power sometimes cost 2,000 euros. But one thing to keep in mind: You should be careful with the height.
If in doubt, consumers should inquire with the responsible building authority. And what if the mini wind turbine is out of the question as a power plant? Then the thought back to the balcony power plant might be interesting. Contrary to what the name suggests, this does not necessarily have to be used on the balcony. Meanwhile, there are also free-standing variants or models with wheels for pushing. New state incentives and less bureaucracy since 2023 will also make solar systems even more attractive than before.
Energy and heat transition: How mini wind turbines can make an important contribution
In addition, you can mini power plants based on wind and sun also complement well. Especially in the dark season, energy generation from wind is more interesting for consumers than solar. So far there is still a lack of storage options. The combination of wind and solar could therefore be a sensible option for countries like Germany – especially since the heat pump is becoming increasingly popular as an alternative to oil heating. But this device also has to be supplied with electricity – and this should ideally come from a regenerative source.
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