Welcome to our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Shipping & Delivery

What are the delivery times?

We do everything possible to deliver to you as quickly as possible. Products marked 'In stock' are generally shipped within 2 to 6 business days. For certain items, especially those requiring specific preparation or made-to-order manufacturing, delivery times may vary between 7 and 15 days. These precise details are always indicated on each product page, just below the 'In stock' icon. Thus, you have a clear view of the delivery time before placing an order.

Can I pick up my order myself?

Le Comptoir Eolien is a mail-order company. For security reasons, we do not have a pickup location for orders.

What are the shipping costs?

To know the amount of shipping costs for a product or a set of products, you must add the product(s) to the shopping cart. The cost calculation is done automatically in the shopping cart.

What are the processing and shipping times for my order?

Once the order has been validated by our services, the preparation and shipping time is between 24 and 72 business hours maximum. A shipping notice for the order is systematically sent by email as soon as it is handled by the carrier.

What happens if I am absent during delivery?

Parcel delivery: Parcels are delivered by carrier La Poste, Chronopost, UPS, or FEDEX. In case of absence, a delivery notice is left in your mailbox. Up to three attempts are scheduled during the three business days following the first presentation. In all cases, please refer to the carrier's delivery notice and follow the instructions to facilitate the delivery of your order.
Pallet delivery: Pallet deliveries are provided by the carrier UPS or DHL. The carrier must contact you by phone to arrange an appointment and facilitate delivery.

Where can I track the status of my order?

You cannot track the preparation status of your order because we do not store any customer data on our web servers; however, you will receive emails at each new status of your order: Order confirmation, Order being processed, Order shipped.

In case of absence, can my order be delivered to a person of my choice?

Yes, you can appoint a person of your choice to receive the parcels at the delivery address. When placing your order, you can also choose to add a delivery address different from the billing address. The billing and delivery details cannot be changed after the order has been validated by our services.

Payment & Billing

What payment methods are available?

You have the following payment methods:
Credit card via Paypal (Visa, Mastercard, Carte bleue, Amex, ...)
Bank transfer

Can I pay for my order upon delivery?

Currently, this payment method is not available in our store.

How to pay by credit card?

Payment by credit card is made securely on an encrypted page of our banking partner (PAYPAL) using SSL (Secure Socket Layer) technology. This protocol ensures the confidentiality of the information you have recorded. Payment by credit card on the Internet, using SSL and 3D secure technologies, poses no risk of hacking. Indeed, all payment information is encrypted from your computer to the bank's server. Comptoir Eolien never retains your credit card information, which is why it is requested for each new transaction on our site.

My credit card payment is declined, what should I do?

First, check that your card's expiration date has not passed. If your bank transaction is declined, it may be due to exceeding the authorized limit. To confirm this, we invite you to contact your bank to verify the amount of this limit. The new "3D Secure" security system requires a security key that your bank must provide for your online purchases (code card, text message, defined password, etc.).

How and where can I view my invoice?

Billing occurs upon validation of each order. Invoices are sent with the package.

Place an order

How to place an order in the store?

To place an order in our store, nothing could be simpler:
Add the desired product(s) to the shopping cart
Adjust the quantities of the products from the cart
Click once on the button: "Proceed with my order"
Enter your billing and shipping information if different
Check the box: I acknowledge having read and accepted the terms of sale and declare that the data entered in this form is sincere and truthful.
Click once on the button: "Proceed with my order"
Choose a delivery method by clicking once on the selection box
Click once on the button: "Proceed with my order"
Choose a payment method by clicking once on the selection box
Click once on the button: "Proceed with my order"
Check your order then at the bottom of the page Click on the button: "Confirm my order and proceed to payment"

You will be redirected to the secure Paypal server. Please enter the requested information to finalize your order.

If you have chosen the bank transfer payment method, a confirmation email will be sent to you with the necessary information as well as the company's bank details for payment of your order via your bank's services. You have 10 days to pay the total amount of the order to the bank account of Comptoir Eolien. NB: Bank charges are the responsibility of the payer.
Orders are processed and shipped only upon receipt of payment.

Which wind turbines are available at Comptoir Éolien?

Comptoir Éolien offers a wide range of wind turbines suitable for all your needs, whether you are an individual or a professional. We have compact vertical wind turbines, ideal for individuals wishing to produce their own energy in an aesthetic and silent manner, as well as horizontal wind turbines for larger-scale projects. You will also find self-consumption kits to reduce your bills, compatible with single-phase and three-phase networks.

For isolated sites, we offer robust wind turbine solutions, with 3 or 5 blade models providing excellent performance even at low wind speeds and low noise levels. Finally, our catalog includes wind turbines designed to withstand extreme conditions and equipped with masts of different heights, to optimize energy production based on your location.

Do you offer solutions for self-consumption?

Yes, we offer a wide range of wind turbine kits specially designed for self-consumption. These kits, ranging from 350W to 2000W (or 2kW), are compatible with Linky smart meters (Enedis). Our solutions allow you to produce and consume your own electricity while significantly reducing your energy bill. By opting for clean and renewable energy, you contribute to the energy transition while becoming more autonomous in the face of electricity price fluctuations. Feel free to discover our different models to adapt the solution to your needs and environment.

What is the lifespan of the wind turbines offered by Le Comptoir Éolien?

The wind turbines sold by Le Comptoir Éolien have an average lifespan of 20 to 25 years. However, this longevity depends on regular maintenance, including annual checks to ensure their proper functioning and energy efficiency. We also recommend preventive checks of essential parts, such as the mast, guy wires, and blades, to maximize their durability and ensure optimal energy production throughout their lifecycle. Thanks to the quality of the materials and technologies used, our wind turbines are designed to withstand various weather conditions and provide reliable service over the long term.

Do you deliver to schools and universities?

Yes, we regularly collaborate with renowned schools and universities, such as the CNRS and the École Centrale de Lyon. We ensure fast and reliable deliveries to meet the specific needs of these institutions. However, please note that we do not accept administrative mandates. All orders must be placed directly on our official website, where you will find a simplified ordering process for institutions. Our team is also available for any additional assistance.

Do you offer wind studies to adjust the power of wind turbines?

Yes, we strongly recommend conducting a wind condition study over a period of 6 to 12 months before purchasing a wind turbine. This analysis allows you to precisely determine the necessary power based on the site's characteristics, including wind speed and regularity. It is also useful for adjusting the number of blades, thus ensuring optimal wind turbine efficiency and energy production tailored to your needs.

If you wish to conduct this study yourself, we advise using a personal weather station or an anemometer to regularly record wind speed. These tools will allow you to collect reliable data and optimize your wind turbine choice based on the specific conditions of your location.

Feel free to consult an expert for more precise advice, especially for isolated sites or those with particular constraints.

Do you offer payment facilities?

Yes, to make our wind energy solutions more accessible, we offer installment payment options via PayPal and Klarna. These solutions allow you to spread the cost of your purchase over several installments while ensuring quick and efficient installation. This way, you can invest in renewable energy without immediate budget constraints.

How can I know if a wind turbine is available?

The availability of each wind turbine is clearly indicated on the product page. If the wind turbine is immediately available, you will see the indication "In stock" accompanied by a green icon. If the product requires a longer delivery time, this information will be specified right next to the icon, with the estimated delivery time (e.g., "Delivery: 7 to 15 days"). We assure you that all availability information is regularly updated to offer you maximum transparency.

This allows you to plan your purchases with peace of mind, taking into account product availability.

Can I install a wind turbine on the roof of my house?

We strongly advise against installing wind turbines on ridges for energy production due to the turbulence and wind variations often observed at this height. If you still wish to install a wind turbine for your home, we recommend a horizontal wind turbine of 1000W maximum. This type of wind turbine is more suitable for average winds (between 20 and 25 km/h) and allows for better energy production stability. Furthermore, before any installation, it is advisable to conduct a wind study to verify if local conditions are favorable for effective production.

Do you have entry-level wind turbines available?

No, we do not offer entry-level wind turbines, as we prioritize the quality and reliability of our products. Each wind turbine we offer undergoes rigorous checks to ensure a high level of performance and durability. Additionally, we guarantee dedicated customer service, as well as the availability of spare parts for optimal follow-up and maintenance of your installations. Our priority is to offer you durable and reliable solutions, tailored to your long-term energy needs.

Can I order accessories for renewable energies?

Yes, we offer a wide range of accessories to optimize your renewable energy installations. This includes converters, batteries, hybrid inverters, wind turbine masts, performance measurement tools, lightning protection boxes, and much more. Our products are carefully selected to meet your specific needs, whether you are looking to improve an existing installation or equip a new project. You will find all these items directly on our site, with fast delivery options and installment payments via Klarna or PayPal.

How can I contact your customer service?

Our customer service is available by email 7 days a week to answer all your questions and requests. You can also reach us by phone at 07.81.34.05.36 from Monday to Friday, from 8:30 am to 6:30 pm. We make it a point to respond quickly, even during holiday periods or in case of high demand, thanks to the automation of our system. Do not hesitate to contact us for any questions related to our products or services.

Can a private residence be heated with one of your wind turbines?

Our wind turbines are primarily designed to power low-voltage devices (12V, 24V, 48V) and produce energy for basic uses. Although it is technically possible to use a wind turbine to power a pellet stove compatible with these voltages, it is not recommended to use a wind turbine to heat a residence with traditional electrical appliances. For example, a small electric baseboard requires at least 500 watts to operate, which would mean a 30-amp wind turbine would have to run continuously 24/7. This would be neither practical nor efficient for primary heating.

However, a wind turbine can be useful for indirect or supplementary heating solutions. If you have a non-electric heating system (wood, gas, oil), your wind turbine can power additional equipment like a water pump, a communication radio, a television, or several low-consumption lights (12 volts). This allows you to optimize energy autonomy while maintaining comfort in isolated environments.

What additional equipment or accessories are required to complete the wind turbine installation?

To complete your wind turbine installation, several pieces of equipment are necessary:

• Mast or antenna tower: The wind turbine must be installed on a mast or tower to be placed at an optimal height. An economical option is to reuse an old television antenna tower, which can often be obtained at low cost or in exchange for its removal, as most households today are equipped with cables or satellite dishes. This saves on the purchase of a new structure.

• Wiring: You will need specific cables to connect the wind turbine to the charge controller or batteries. It is important to use wiring suitable for the distance and power to minimize energy losses.

• Deep cycle batteries: If you opt for a storage system, deep cycle batteries are essential. They allow energy to be stored for periods when the wind is weak or nonexistent. The more batteries you have, the greater your reserve capacity will be, thus ensuring prolonged energy supply.

• Charge controller and inverter: These accessories are necessary to manage the battery charge and convert the stored energy into usable current for your devices.

• Self-consumption options without batteries: If you want a simpler solution, we offer self-consumption systems that do not require batteries. They allow you to use the energy produced by the wind turbine directly to power your home or business in real-time, depending on the wind turbine's production.

Can you disconnect from public electricity services like EDF and become completely autonomous with a wind turbine?

Yes and no. It may seem complicated at first glance, but it's not impossible! For example, if you have a wood-burning auxiliary heater or an oil stove, you can turn to propane or butane gas to power appliances like a refrigerator or a stove for food preservation and cooking.

Regarding lighting, water pumping, radios, and televisions, you can easily manage this with a wind turbine if your equipment operates on low voltage (12V, 24V, or 48V). For other small devices requiring 230V, it is possible to use a converter (inverter) to power them. However, keep in mind that there will be an energy loss of about 10% during this conversion.

That's why we recommend prioritizing equipment that operates directly on low voltage (12V, 24V, or 48V) as much as possible. For example, you will find on our site economical solutions like 12V halogen lighting including bulbs, wiring, reflectors, and housings, perfect for reducing your dependence on the traditional electrical grid at a very affordable cost.

This approach allows you to optimize wind energy self-consumption while limiting your reliance on public electricity providers.

Can your wind turbines be found in stores?

No, our wind turbines are not available in physical stores. We have made the strategic choice to sell them exclusively directly from the factory. This decision is based on our experience of over fifteen years with dealers and distributors, which has shown us that the best after-sales service can only be ensured by a direct link between the manufacturer and the customer.

At Le Comptoir Éolien, we are not just sellers. We consider ourselves above all as expert advisors in the field of wind energy. This means you will never be abandoned after purchase. We know our machines inside out and are here to support you at every step: from low-cost installation to the proper functioning of your wind turbine.

If needed, we cover 100% of technical issues, providing you with quick solutions and a warranty on parts. Additionally, we manufacture our own spare parts, which allows us to guarantee the availability of essential elements and extend the lifespan of your wind turbine. This direct sales model allows us to offer a tailored service and guarantee customer satisfaction.

Where can I find equipment operating on 12, 24, or 48 volts?

It is relatively simple to obtain equipment operating on 12V, 24V, or 48V, as these systems are widely used in sailboats, motorhomes, caravans, and recreational vehicles. You will find a wide variety of electrical and lighting devices suitable for these voltages, such as kitchen hoods, water pumps, halogen lighting, or even gas heating systems with electric fans. To equip yourself, we recommend visiting stores specializing in boat accessories or camping and caravanning accessories. Additionally, we also offer a wide range of products operating on 12V, 24V, and 48V on our site to meet your specific needs for energy autonomy.

I already have a solar panel. Can I still add a wind turbine to my installation?

Absolutely. Adding a wind turbine to a solar installation is entirely possible and even recommended to maximize your renewable energy production. The wind turbine will come with an integrated or separate electronic regulator, depending on the model, which is part of the installation. Simply connect the wires from the wind turbine or regulator directly to your battery terminals, ensuring the polarity is correct. This will give you an efficient hybrid system independent of public electricity suppliers.

Both systems, wind and solar, work perfectly in parallel. When one system produces less energy (for example, in case of low wind or low sunlight), the other can compensate, thus ensuring a continuous energy supply.

I was thinking of going solar, but after visiting your site, I'm a bit confused. Can you explain the differences between wind and solar at all levels?

Absolutely! Here is a comparison between a 250-watt wind turbine (15 amperes) and a 75-watt solar panel, for an equivalent price. This comparison highlights the differences in performance and use between the two technologies:

Energy production:

• The solar panel is a fixed device, installed with optimal orientation to capture sunlight. However, maximum production is limited to the sunniest hours of the day, roughly from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Outside these hours, efficiency decreases, and it is impossible to produce energy at night.
• The wind turbine, on the other hand, is also fixed on an installation (tower or support not included in the purchase), but it has the advantage of automatically orienting itself towards the wind. Thus, regardless of the wind direction, the wind turbine continues to produce energy, potentially 24/7 if wind conditions are favorable, even at night.

Energy efficiency:

• The solar panel, although efficient in full sun, depends on the weather and time of day. Additionally, voltage regulators are often purchased separately.
• The wind turbine, however, offers more consistent efficiency if the wind is present, with a charge rate potentially eight times higher than that of the solar panel over a full day. Moreover, our wind turbines include a charge regulator, which simplifies installation.

Weather conditions:

• If you live in a very sunny region like Florida, solar can be an excellent solution. However, in regions where sunlight is low in winter, such as in Europe or northern Canada, a wind turbine is much more effective as it benefits from frequent winds, especially in winter when the sun is scarce.

Flexibility:

• A wind turbine can charge your batteries even while you sleep, which is particularly useful if you need energy first thing in the morning, such as for recharging an electric outboard motor, for example. A solar panel cannot provide energy at night, which forces you to be more dependent on periods of light.

In conclusion: If you are looking for a solution capable of working both day and night, and adapting to variable conditions (such as changes in wind direction), the wind turbine is often the most advantageous choice, especially in temperate climates where winds are present most of the time. The choice becomes more obvious when you know that for a similar cost, a 250-watt wind turbine offers much higher efficiency than a 75-watt solar panel, and this over a longer duration each day.

I have several small devices running on 230 volts, can I operate them with a wind turbine?

Absolutely. It is possible to operate your 230-volt devices using a wind turbine with an inverter (also called an inverter or converter). This device allows you to convert the low voltage energy (12V, 24V, or 48V) stored in your batteries into 230V alternating current, suitable for your household appliances. However, it is important to note that there is an efficiency loss of about 10% during this conversion. This means that part of the energy generated by the wind turbine will be consumed during the transformation, slightly reducing the power available for your equipment. Also, consider properly sizing your inverter to avoid overload and ensure optimal power supply.

This could offer you a good self-consumption solution to power small devices while remaining independent of the public grid!

Can I install a wind turbine on the roof of my cabin?

Installing a wind turbine on the roof of a cabin is strongly discouraged for several reasons. First, a typical residential-sized wind turbine has a blade about 2.00 meters in diameter, which is equivalent to the surface of a plywood panel catching the wind. This means that when gusts of wind occur, they generate significant vibrations and hums that can spread throughout the cabin structure, creating noise and discomfort. Additionally, the repetitive movements and applied forces could potentially weaken your roof in the long term. A mast installation, away from habitable structures, is a much more suitable solution for optimal efficiency and durability.

Can I let my wind turbine run continuously during the winter if I can't get to my cabin? And what about the risk of theft?

Yes, it is even recommended to let your wind turbine run continuously during your absence. This keeps your batteries fully charged, thus avoiding any deep discharge that could damage them. As for theft, know that the sight of a moving wind turbine can be very deterrent. Like the propeller of an airplane idling, an active wind turbine is intimidating to anyone considering approaching it. Additionally, installation at height (on a tower or tree) greatly complicates any theft attempt. Thieves generally look for easy and quick targets, which is not the case with a functioning wind turbine.

This provides both security for your equipment and sustainable energy efficiency during your prolonged absences.

And if there's no wind, won't it work?

Indeed, in the absence of wind, the wind turbine does not produce electricity. However, this is precisely where the batteries play an essential role. Your wind turbine is designed to store the energy produced in batteries when the wind blows, so you can use it during calm periods. The more batteries you have, the more reserve you have to face these windless moments. This allows you to maintain a stable electricity supply even in the absence of instant production. You can thus enjoy renewable energy at any time, optimizing your energy autonomy.

I've been told that some wind turbines are noisy, is that true? I have a sailboat and I like to sleep in silence.

It is true that all wind turbines produce a certain level of noise, but this level varies depending on the design. The wind turbines from Comptoir Éolien, thanks to their advanced profile blades, are among the quietest on the market. They emit a slight whistling, comparable to the sound of wind in the trees. If you are on a sailboat and wish to sleep in silence, it is entirely possible to stop the wind turbine at night. Moreover, our models are efficient enough to fully charge three deep-cycle batteries (class 31 or 125 amp-hours) in 5 to 6 hours in moderate wind during the day. You will thus have energy autonomy for your devices for at least 2 to 3 days.

Should the wind turbine be stopped when it's very windy?

Absolutely not! Our wind turbines are equipped with an electronic speed regulator that automatically manages the rotation of the blade when it reaches 1500 revolutions per minute (rpm) or more. This device protects the blade from any risk of overspeed, thus ensuring the safety of the wind turbine even in very strong winds.

We have conducted extensive tests showing that a blade could fail due to overspeed between 3200 and 3500 rpm. This means that our wind turbines benefit from a safety factor of at least 100%. You can therefore be reassured: the wind turbine continues to operate safely, even in strong winds.

However, as a precaution during storms, we recommend stopping your wind turbine. To do this, you can use a switch, available at Comptoir Éolien. This action is mainly advised to protect the mast mounting of your installation.

Could I see a Comptoir Éolien wind turbine in operation?

Our wind turbines are shipped all over Europe, and more than 95% of our customers install them in their residence, cabin, or fishing/hunting camp. Once installed, it is rare for our customers to contact us again, as the wind turbines operate autonomously and reliably. Generally, the only times we receive feedback is in case of a technical issue, which often occurs when the installation has not followed the provided manual correctly.

That said, the wind turbines from Comptoir Éolien are designed to be simple to install and use, and we provide a detailed manual. Like with a car, the majority of users do not feel the need to inform us of their satisfaction, but the few feedbacks we have show that, in most cases, the wind turbines work perfectly when installed according to the instructions.

Can the electricity produced by a wind turbine be sold?

The electricity produced by a wind turbine can only be sold under the EDF purchase obligation if the installation is located in a Z.D.E. (Wind Development Zone). These zones are created to promote the installation of large-capacity wind turbines, but they are relatively few in France. Moreover, the purchase price offered is often low, making this option unattractive for small installations.

For small wind turbines, it is generally more advantageous to self-consume the energy produced. Self-consumption means using the electricity produced directly to power your home, thus reducing your energy bills. This also allows you to avoid the constraints related to selling.

However, it is possible to sell the excess electricity to certain alternative providers like ENERCOOP or DIRECT ENERGIE, who offer to buy electricity produced by renewable energies. It should be noted, however, that this approach involves leaving EDF for your home's consumption and having a specific injection meter installed by Enedis (formerly ERDF) (or Enedis today).

It is therefore essential to carefully study the available options based on your energy needs and the potential profitability of your installation.

What is the lifespan of a wind turbine?

Generally, a wind turbine has a lifespan of between 20 and 25 years, depending on usage conditions and regular maintenance. Thanks to technological advances, particularly with contactless permanent magnet generators, the longevity of wind turbines has significantly improved. These generators reduce component wear, which extends the operating life of the wind turbine. It is recommended to conduct annual inspections to ensure optimal performance and anticipate any necessary repairs or adjustments, in order to maximize the lifespan of your installation.

Is there any regulation preventing the installation of a wind turbine?

To our knowledge, there is no specific regulation prohibiting the installation of a wind turbine, provided that its total height, including blades, does not exceed 12 meters. For turbines of this size, you generally do not need a building permit, although it is advisable to check local urban planning rules.

Installing a wind turbine offers many advantages: you produce your own renewable electricity, thus reducing your dependence on fossil fuels and contributing to the conservation of non-renewable resources. It is also a sustainable investment that allows you to save on your energy bills while participating in the energy transition.

At Comptoir Éolien, with over 15 years of experience in the field, we are committed to providing you with high-quality, tested, and reliable products to support you in your wind energy projects.

Are gable-mounted wind turbines as efficient as mast-mounted wind turbines?

In general, a wind turbine mounted on a 50-meter mast will be more efficient, as it benefits from better exposure to regular and constant winds, away from ground obstacles. However, installing a gable-mounted wind turbine, positioned 2.00 meters above the ridge of a house, is a more economical solution, as the setup costs are significantly lower than those of a tall mast. However, it is important to note that for a self-consumption installation, excess production (kWh not consumed by the household) may be lost, making the profitability of very high production less critical. The most determining factor remains the average wind speed at the location and the absence of turbulence, which can strongly influence performance, whether it is a gable or mast installation.

What are the advantages of gable-mounted roof wind turbines?

Gable-mounted roof wind turbines, with a power range from 300 watts to 1500 watts, are perfectly suited to the consumption of a home. They offer several notable advantages:

• Adaptation to energy needs: Their low power is well-suited to moderate consumption, typical of a single-family home.
• Competitive cost: Compared to traditional mast installations, these wind turbines offer a more affordable option while ensuring efficient energy production.
• Refined aesthetics: The products offered by Le Comptoir Éolien are not only efficient but also aesthetically pleasing, harmoniously integrating into the architecture of the home.
• Mobility in case of relocation: Easily dismountable and transportable, these wind turbines are ideal for users who wish to retain their investment when moving.

However, for better wind capture and independence from the structure of the home, it is recommended to consider a traditional mast installation, which ensures better performance in optimal wind conditions.

What is the profitability of a gable-mounted roof wind turbine?

The profitability of a gable-mounted roof wind turbine depends on several factors, including the speed and regularity of the wind in the installation area and increases in electricity prices. Based on an average increase of 5 to 10% per year in electricity rates, a gable-mounted wind turbine can be amortized between 7 and 12 years. This period varies depending on the wind zone where it is installed: in windy regions (with average winds of 6 to 7 m/s), amortization is faster, while in less windy areas, it may be a bit longer.

Thus, the more favorable the wind zone, the shorter the return on investment time, especially with the constant increase in electricity costs.

How to know the wind strength and estimate production?

To get an initial estimate of wind strength, you can consult the general wind map of France, which provides data on average winds in different regions. However, this general data must be refined based on the precise location of your home.

Specialized companies, such as METEOLIEN, can provide you with a detailed study of the winds in your area at an affordable cost. This study takes into account local peculiarities and specific weather conditions, thus offering a more accurate assessment of wind strength.

It is also important to consider the position of your home. A house located on a hill will benefit from more constant and strong winds, which will significantly increase the production of a wind turbine. Conversely, an installation on a plain, surrounded by trees or obstacles, could experience disturbances and reduce the efficiency of the wind turbine. In this case, it may be necessary to adjust the height of the mast or choose a wind turbine model more suited to moderate winds.

An on-site assessment, over a period of 6 to 12 months, with specific measuring tools, can also help you better understand the wind characteristics around your home and accurately estimate potential energy production.

Does the wind turbine continue to produce in the event of an Enedis (formerly ERDF) network outage?

No, the wind turbine automatically stops producing electricity in the event of an Enedis (formerly ERDF) network outage, for safety reasons. The connection to your home's network is necessarily made via a decoupling relay compliant with the DIN VDE 0126 standard. This relay functions to interrupt electricity production when the public network is cut. Moreover, most inverters are equipped with an automatic shutdown function in case of a fault detected on the network. This prevents any risk of electrocution for maintenance teams working on electrical lines outside your home. It is therefore essential that production is stopped to avoid endangering people working on these infrastructures.

Is the noise from gable wind turbines significant?

No, the noise from the gable wind turbines we offer is relatively low. Thanks to an optimized blade design, our wind turbines produce a slight whistling sound similar to the wind blowing through trees. Even in strong winds, the sound of the wind itself is generally as perceptible, if not more so, than the noise of the operating wind turbine. This feature makes it a discreet solution suitable for residential environments.

Can gable wind turbines be mounted on any wall?

Yes, it is possible to mount a gable wind turbine on different types of walls, provided certain essential rules are followed. The fixings must be properly sized to withstand pull-out forces, especially in the event of strong winds. In general, the supplied fixings are oversized to ensure maximum safety and prevent any risk of pull-out.

However, it is strongly advised to install the wind turbine on a wall exposed to prevailing winds to optimize energy production. Also, ensure that the wall is strong enough to withstand the mechanical stresses related to the vibrations and rotation of the blade. Reinforcement may be necessary for older or less robust walls.

Can a gable wind turbine be installed regardless of the roof?

The installation of a gable wind turbine can vary depending on the roof configuration. Four-sided roofs are generally not recommended, as they limit the wind exposure necessary for good energy production. Additionally, if the roof overhang exceeds 20 cm, it will be necessary to drill through the covering to allow the mast to pass. In this case, it is crucial to implement a waterproof protection around the mast to ensure the integrity of the roof and avoid any risk of infiltration or damage.

Can a gable wind turbine be installed in the city?

The installation of a gable wind turbine in an urban environment is generally not recommended due to the specific conditions related to the city. The performance of the wind turbine can be significantly reduced by the turbulence created by the density of buildings, tall structures, and the presence of other structures. These obstacles disrupt the wind flow, reducing the efficiency of the wind turbine. Additionally, local noise requirements and urban planning regulations may pose additional constraints. If you still consider an installation in the city, it is crucial to conduct a thorough study of wind conditions and consult local authorities to ensure compliance with the rules in force.

What are the formalities for installing a gable wind turbine on a roof?

The installation of a gable wind turbine on a roof may require certain administrative procedures, depending on the location and local regulations.

• Protection of historical monuments: If the installation site is within a protected area (notably around historical monuments), it is mandatory to submit a prior declaration of works to the town hall. You will then have to wait for the approval of the competent authorities. The response time can be up to two months, after which the absence of a response is considered acceptance.

• Subdivision regulations and municipal ordinance: Even outside protected areas, the installation of a wind turbine may be prohibited or subject to restrictions by the subdivision regulations or a specific municipal ordinance. It is recommended to check these documents before any installation project.

• Building permit: If the height of the wind turbine exceeds 12 meters (including the mast), a building permit is required. This process must also be done at the town hall, with a longer processing time than a simple prior declaration.

In summary, it is essential to thoroughly research local regulations before proceeding with the installation of your gable wind turbine to avoid penalties or the need to remove the installation.

What is the tax credit for wind turbines?

Tax credits for the installation of wind turbines have significantly evolved over the years. Until 2012, it was possible to benefit from a 32% tax credit on the equipment, in accordance with administrative instruction 5-B-18-12 (Official Tax Bulletin No. 41 of April 2, 2012). However, this scheme has been gradually replaced by other forms of aid, notably the Energy Transition Tax Credit (CITE), which itself has been replaced by grants like MaPrimeRénov'.

Currently, the installation of a domestic wind turbine is no longer eligible for the tax credit, but may benefit from other financial aids or local subsidies, depending on the region. It is recommended to check the programs in effect in your region or consult a tax advisor or renewable energy specialist to know the current aid possibilities.

In summary, tax credits for wind turbines are no longer available at the national level, but local aid schemes may be accessible to reduce your installation costs.

Are wind turbines resistant to storms?

Our wind turbines are designed to withstand extreme weather conditions, including storms. The fastenings provided with our models meet strict standards and are suitable for strong winds, especially in zone 3, covering almost all of mainland France. In case of very strong winds, our wind turbines are equipped with an electronic regulator that automatically limits the rotation speed. This device stabilizes the wind turbine and, if necessary, stops it to prevent any risk of damage. Additionally, our fastenings are sized to ensure optimal strength against gusts, thus ensuring maximum safety. However, during particularly violent storms, it is recommended, as a precaution, to put the wind turbine in stop position using a safety switch available on our site.

How does a wind turbine work?

A wind turbine uses the force of the wind to generate electricity, functioning somewhat like an engine in reverse. When the wind turbine blades capture the wind, they rotate around an axis. This rotation drives a generator that produces a three-phase alternating current. This current is then sent to a regulator that converts it into direct current.

In the context of an installation for a house or an isolated site, a converter or inverter comes into play. It converts this direct current into alternating current to the French standard (230V), compatible with domestic electrical appliances. This process allows you to directly power your home or store the electricity in batteries for later use, thus maximizing your energy independence.

Can I use my wind turbine for self-consumption of electricity?

Yes, self-consumption is the main goal of installing a wind turbine. You have two main options:

• Complement to a traditional connection (EDF or other supplier): The wind turbine significantly reduces your electricity bill by producing part of the energy you consume. This option is ideal if you wish to maintain a connection to the electrical grid while benefiting from a renewable energy source to lighten your expenses.

• Total autonomy: It is also possible to use your wind turbine for complete autonomy, but this requires integrating a battery system to store the energy produced. In most cases, coupling with solar panels is recommended to compensate for periods when the wind is insufficient. Precise sizing of your installation is crucial in this configuration to cover your energy needs under all circumstances.

In both cases, a preliminary study of your energy consumption needs and an adequate calculation of the wind turbine's power are essential to ensure an efficient and cost-effective installation.

What is a small wind turbine?

A small wind turbine is defined by its power, which ranges from 100 watts (W) to 36 kilowatts (kW), according to the criteria established by the Agency for Ecological Transition (ADEME). These wind turbines are mainly designed for domestic, agricultural uses, or to power isolated sites. They allow for the production of electricity for self-consumption, thus reducing dependence on public energy grids. Their installation is more accessible than that of large industrial wind turbines, and they are often used in small-scale renewable energy projects.

The choice of the size of a small wind turbine depends on the energy needs of the installation as well as the wind conditions of the site. To optimize their performance, it is recommended to conduct a preliminary wind study.

How to calculate the annual electrical production of a wind turbine?

The calculation of the annual electricity production of a wind turbine mainly relies on the average wind speed at the installation site. It is essential to know the local wind conditions, measured over an extended period (ideally 6 to 12 months). The production of a wind turbine is proportional to the cube of the wind speed, which means that a small increase in wind speed can lead to a significant increase in production.

In practice, a wind turbine located in a site with an average wind speed of 5 m/s will produce about 1200 hours of full power operation, multiplied by the rated power of the turbine (expressed in watts or kilowatts). For example, a 1000W turbine could produce about 1200 kWh per year under these conditions.

However, the wind distribution throughout the year is another key factor to consider. It is rare for the wind to blow consistently at a given speed throughout the year. Periods of strong wind and calm periods will affect actual production. Tools such as wind studies or wind production simulation software can provide more accurate estimates based on data specific to your location.

In summary, to estimate annual production, it is recommended to combine the average wind speed, the rated power of the turbine, and the wind distribution throughout the year. These elements allow for a realistic estimate of the expected electricity production.

Do you have any questions? Feel free to ask us, we will be happy to answer them and add them to this list to help other users!

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