Another way to generate your own clean energy is to install a wind turbine. Modern wind turbines use the wind's lift forces to turn aerodynamic blades that turn a rotor which creates electricity.

In the UK we have 40% of Europe's total wind energy. But it's still largely untapped and only 0.5% of our electricity requirements are currently generated by wind power.

Uses range from very small turbines supplying energy for battery charging systems (e.g. on boats or in homes), to turbines grouped on wind farms supplying electricity to the grid.

Wind speed increases with height so it's best to have the turbine high on a mast or tower. Generally speaking the ideal siting is a smooth-top hill with a flat, clear exposure, free from excessive turbulence and obstructions such as large trees, houses or other buildings.

Knowledge of the local wind is critical to designing a wind energy system and predicting output. For domestic installations a good source of information on local wind speeds is the NOABL database which can be accessed from the British Wind Energy Association.

Planning issues such as visual impact, noise and conservation issues also have to be considered. System installation normally requires permission from the local authority.