Aerogenerator

Introduction

An aerogenerator is a small wind electric generator having a capacity of up to 30 kW. Aerogenerators are installed either in stand-alone mode or along with solar photovoltaic (SPV) systems to form a wind-solar hybrid system for decentralized power generation. An aerogenerator is suitable for power generation in unelectrified areas having adequate wind speeds. It consists of a rotor of 1-10 m diameter having 2-3 blades, permanent magnet generator, control devices, yaw mechanism, tower, storage battery, etc. The aerogenerator rotor starts moving at a wind speed of 9-12 km per hour. However, it produces optimum power at the rated wind speed of 40-45 km per hour. The limitation of not being able to provide power as and when it is required is overcome by storing it in a battery bank.

Water-pumping windmill

Aerogenerators and wind-solar hybrid systems require high wind speeds and good solar radiation. Potential exists for installation in Andhra pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Orissa, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttaranchal, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and the windy regions of Jammu and Kashmir and all north-eastern states.

• So far, about 1000 water-pumping windmills
• And 380 kW aggregate capacity of aerogenerators/wind-solar hybrid systems have been installed in the country.

Cost

Aerogenerators cost about Rs 2.00-2.50 lakhs per kW. In addition, the cost of installation including civil works is estimated at Rs 5000 per kW. The repair and maintenance cost is about Rs 2000 per kW per annum.

The West Bengal Renewable Energy Development Agency (WBREDA) has installed six aerogenerators of 3-kW capacity each in the existing SPV power plants at Sagar and Mousani islands. A number of aerogenerators have been installed by the Maharashtra Energy Development Agency (MEDA), and are working satisfactorily. An aerogenerator of 3.2-kW capacity, installed at the Manashakti Research Centre, Lonawala, is supplying electricity to illuminate 22 streetlights on the road connecting the centre's hostel to the highway. The aerogenerator is visible from the Mumbai-Pune highway.

Main Application

Wind Energy

For further information please contact

Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Ltd.
India Habitat Centre Complex
Core-4A, East Court, 1st Floor
Lodi Road, New Delhi- 110003
Tel: 91 11 2468 2200/ 91 11 2468 2202