Wind turbines generate electricity by using the power of wind to turn blades connected to a generator. The electricity produced can be used within your property, stored in batteries or exported back into the electricity network.

Domestic wind systems are usually most suitable for rural properties, farms and homes with strong, consistent wind conditions and open space. Performance can reduce significantly in built-up or heavily sheltered locations.

Support for wind turbines may be available through renewable energy grants, loans and community programmes across the UK.

What Can Wind Turbines Power?

Electricity generated by a wind turbine can help supply:

  • Household electricity use
  • Lighting and appliances
  • Heat pumps and electric heating systems
  • Workshops and outbuildings
  • Battery storage systems
  • Exporting excess electricity back into the network

Which Grants & Support May Be Available?

Scotland – Home Energy Scotland (HES)

Support may include:

  • Renewable technology loans
  • Wind turbine support routes
  • Renewable energy guidance
  • Wider home energy packages

Home Energy Scotland

Telephone: 0808 808 2282

Community Renewable Projects – CARES Scotland

Larger renewable and shared projects may receive support through community energy programmes.

Support may include:

  • Community-owned wind projects
  • Shared renewable infrastructure
  • Local energy developments

Local Energy Scotland

Telephone: 0808 808 2288

How Much Electricity Can Domestic Wind Turbines Produce?

Electricity output depends on:

  • Wind speed
  • Turbine size
  • Height above ground
  • Property location
  • Nearby trees, buildings and obstructions

Typical examples:

1kW Wind Turbine

Approximate annual generation:

  • Around 1,500–2,500 kWh per year

Can help reduce a portion of household electricity demand.

2.5kW Wind Turbine

Approximate annual generation:

  • Around 4,000–6,500 kWh annually

Can cover a large proportion of electricity use for many households.

5kW Wind Turbine

Approximate annual generation:

  • Around 8,000–15,000+ kWh annually

Larger systems in strong wind areas can generate more electricity than many homes use.

Typical UK household electricity use is often around 2,700–4,000 kWh per year.

How Does The Electricity Connection Work?

Step 1 – Wind Generates Power

Wind turns the turbine blades, creating electricity.

Step 2 – Inverter & Control Equipment

Electricity passes through control systems and inverters to convert power into usable household electricity.

Step 3 – Installer Connects To Your Electrical System

A qualified installer connects the turbine system into your property's consumer unit (fuse board).

The installer does not usually install a separate connection directly into the national grid.

Step 4 – Your Home Uses Electricity First

Electricity is normally used in this order:

Household electricity demand

Battery charging (if installed)

Excess electricity export

Step 5 – Excess Electricity Flows Back To The Network

If more electricity is generated than your property uses, excess power can automatically flow back through your existing supply connection into the local electricity network.

The installer usually manages any network paperwork and approvals.

Can You Get Paid For Extra Electricity?

Yes.

Many wind turbine systems can qualify for Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) payments.

This allows households to receive payments for unused electricity exported into the network.

Typical export rates vary between suppliers but can include:

  • Around 3p–6p per kWh on basic tariffs
  • Around 15p–25p+ per kWh on some smart or premium tariffs

Payment rates vary and can change over time.

Typical requirements include:

  • Smart meter or export meter
  • Eligible renewable installation
  • Required certification documents

Additional Information

  • Wind turbines generally work best in exposed rural areas
  • Battery storage can improve savings
  • Export payments may provide additional income
  • Larger systems may require network approval before installation

Need Information On Current Grants & Support?

Contact Grants Gateway to discuss current grants and support routes that may apply to household and property circumstances.

Available support and eligibility requirements can vary depending on location and individual circumstances.