Small wind turbines can contribute substantially to both a low-carbon energy system, as well as to the autarky and resilience of rural or remote communities and facilities. They can be deployed on building roofs as well as on the ground, and are a useful complement to photovoltaic systems, because they can generate power overnight or in cloudy weather. A range of technologies and designs are available, and suitability depends on the situation, so systematic modelling combined with collection of experience are necessary in making successful, efficient and cost-effective selection decisions.

This book is intended for researchers from academia and industry involved with small wind turbines, for small wind turbine manufacturers, as well as for wind power experts and power grid operators. Edited by two renowned wind power experts and written by an international author team, chapters cover standard development, aeroelastic modelling, tail fin dynamics, small blade manufacturing, from sustainable materials, small ducted wind turbines, low tip speed ratio design, high latitude and arid area applications, distributed wind systems, small wind turbines in microgrids, as well as planning and siting, and including case studies describing the manufacture and installation of small wind turbines.