8.2.2 Wind turbines

8.2.2.3 System design

Wind turbine systems shall be designed to ensure satisfactory performance. Issues to be taken into account include:

  1. location
  2. system
  3. compatibility
  4. performance
  5. diverters
  6. battery and storage
  7. acoustics.

8.2.2.3.1 Location

Wind turbine systems, including ancillary equipment, should be correctly located and:

  • installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and MIS 3003
  • not be obstructed to prevent incorrect and efficient operation
  • for stand-alone wind turbine systems, suitable exclusion zones provided in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations and geographical location.

The design and location of wind turbine technologies should take account of factors such as coastal location.

When installed in a coastal location, fixings and bracketry should be appropriate for the area, and stainless steel grade 316 should be used where appropriate.

8.2.2.3.2 System

Wind turbine systems should be designed in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations, certification scheme requirements and appropriate standards.

Each system should generally be supplied from one manufacturer as a package, not as individual components or materials. However, where components from more than one manufacturer are used, they should be compatible to ensure satisfactory performance.

8.2.2.3.3 Compatibility

Wind turbine systems should be installed so as not to adversely affect the performance of the building to which they are fixed, and in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Multiple systems should be compatible with each other.

8.2.2.3.4 Performance

Wind turbine systems designed to contribute towards water heating should be designed in accordance with the performance requirements in Clause 8.1.8.

8.2.2.3.5 Diverters

The provision of immersion diverters is discretionary. Where used, they should be designed by a competent person to prevent any adverse operation to the installed electrical installation, either upstream or downstream, including RCD and islanding protection.

8.2.2.3.6 Batteries and storage

Also see:

8.1.6

The provision of battery storage is discretionary. Where used, they should be designed by a competent person and in conjunction with the IET Code of Practice for Electrical Energy Storage Systems and BS 7671 18th Edition wiring regulations, and:

  • the installation should be in line with MIS 3012 and manufacturer’s installation instructions
  • the inverters must be fully type tested to the standards required by the Energy Networks Association recommendations
  • the batteries and storage equipment should not be located where they are at risk of accidental damage or where their enclosures are not designed for
  • batteries intended for use in dwellings should be housed in a suitable enclosure meeting the relevant IPX rating
  • batteries/storage should not be placed so that escape routes are impeded, and that any fire in the battery does not compromise protected escape routes
  • where batteries are located, have sufficient ventilation to prevent overheating and prevent explosive conditions of evolved gasses
  • should not be designed and installed where foreseeable flood or water inundation conditions may occur.

Further guidance relating to battery installation can be found in PAS 63100 Electrical installations — Protection against fire of battery energy storage systems for use in dwellings.

8.2.2.3.7 Acoustics

Design and location should take account of:

  • internal and external noise
  • vibration
  • the effect on neighbouring properties, particularly the positioning of the wind turbine system in relation to openings.

Last updated: 2nd January 2025

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