5.2.4.4 STAND ALONE UNITS

5.2.4.4.1 Batteries (option 2)

Isolated single dwellings or small communities may be able to store enough energy in conventional batteries and rely on a wind generator, but this will depend critically on the wind regime at the site and acceptance of a significant risk of power failure (e.g. during an extended anticyclone). These risks will be reduced if some photovoltaic modules can be included in the system.

 

5.2.4.4.2 Wind and Diesel (options 1,3)

For more dependable power at a moderate scale, a diesel engine (which can be rapidly started and stopped automatically) is often paired with a wind turbine, which then operates as a fuel saving device. The economics of this will depend on the cost of supplying diesel oil (or biodiesel), which may be substantial at a very remote site. Unless some battery capacity is also installed, a sophisticated control system may be needed to prevent power failures due to sudden wind changes, when even a diesel engine may not start up in time.