Concrete support structures for small wind turbines

Abstract

Small wind turbines (SWT) generate electricity up to several dozen kilowatts. They can be divided into turbines with a horizontal axis of rotation (Horizontal Axis Wind Turbines) and turbines with a vertical axis (Vertical Axis Wind Turbines).The paper discusses design issues related to various types of wind turbines, and lays down general principles for the selection of support structures for small wind turbines (SWT) with a horizontal axis of rotation. The possibilities of using E-type spun prestressed-concrete poles used in medium voltage overhead power lines as SWT supporting structures are presented and discussed with regard to technical benefits of their application.