According to the recently released Global Small Wind Turbine Market 2009-2013 report from Research and Markets, high initial costs and the huge structure of large wind turbines have given rise to the less costly small wind turbine market. Small wind turbines, which have a power rating of 100 kilowatt or less, are lightweight, allowing them to function with light wind. In addition, they can be mounted on rooftops like television antennae and they produce little noise. The most commonly used technology for these turbines is the horizontal axis wind turbine, but other technologies like loopwing turbines are also available. In previous years, small wind turbines were used to generate power to charge batteries; now, technical developments have allowed these turbines to be used to power homes and businesses. What’s more, government support and awareness for renewable energy will likely help the market for small wind turbines to grow rapidly.

Technological advances have allowed wind turbine blades to become lighter and smaller, yet more efficient. Similarly, the rotor speeds have been slowed down to decrease noise, and vibration isolators have been introduced. Self-protecting technologies that help the wind turbine to protect itself in case of high wind speeds, along with active pitch controls to capture energy at these high speeds, have been introduced. In addition, some small wind turbines feature wireless connectivity, allowing owners to control the turbine dynamics from a distant location. New wind turbines can be used on and off the grid, depending on the owner’s needs. Such technological advances have made these wind turbines more reliable as an energy source, and thus have driven the market for small wind turbines.

Visit www.researchandmarkets.com/research/2e6519/global_small_wind for additional information.