Kestrel makes breakthrough in UK renewable energy sector

4 Oct 2012

The UK government has certified South Africa's only small wind turbine manufacturer, Kestrel, as the only turbine verified by design to be a class one small-wind turbine on its Feed-In Tariff scheme.

Approved by the UK Department of Energy and Climate Change, and conditionally registered in the USA with the North American Small Wind Certification Council, homeowners and businesses benefit from FIT schemes to incentivise renewable energy installations.

The certified Kestrel e400nb can produce 3 922kWh - based on an average speed of five meters per second - annually, and with the FIT scheme paying R3.74 per kWh produced, UK homeowners will earn approximately R14 668 per year, be less reliant on the grid, and eco-friendly. Conducted by MCS Certification on behalf of the UK government, it focuses on ensuring the quality of renewable technology installations and products.

Certification proves world-class quality

There are already a number of installations across South Africa, but the UK and US certification demonstrates the world-class quality and international popularity of a proudly South African product.

"Solid returns from renewable energy, new technology and improved government incentives, makes it easier to become less reliant on fossil fuels," commented Kestrel director Leon Gouws. "The UN's aim to double the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix by 2030, and the certification process means people can support this vision, with knowledge their turbine is robust enough to withstand the toughest of winds, and is reliable to ensure consistent energy production."

Best for homes, small businesses

The Kestrel 3.5kW small wind turbines are ideal for homes, farming or small businesses with the available space for installation. Tested by TUV NEL in East Kilbride, Scotland, the small wind turbine was tested and withstands winds of 156.6mph.

Electricity produced by the turbine is processed by an electronic inverter and fed into the grid. The property is then preferentially supplied by wind power, and any shortfall during peak demand is supplied by the grid. The result is that your energy bill is reduced by the amount of wind energy that is harvested. Your chosen installer will be able to recommend your potential energy production, earnings and return on investment using your property's co-ordinates.