Wind Turbine Calculator
Calculate power output, efficiency, and revenue from wind turbines
Wind Turbine Configuration
Turbine Type
Turbine Dimensions
Loss Factors
Advanced Settings
HAWT Performance Results
Available Wind Power
Output Power
Rotational Speed
Torque
🌱 Annual Environmental Impact
Understanding Wind Energy
How Wind Turbines Work
Wind turbines convert kinetic energy from moving air into electrical energy. The wind causes the blades to rotate, which turns a generator to produce electricity. The power output is proportional to the cube of wind speed, meaning small increases in wind speed result in large increases in power generation.
HAWT vs VAWT
HAWT Advantages
- • Higher efficiency (35-45%)
- • Better wind capture
- • Proven technology
- • Lower cost per kW
VAWT Advantages
- • Works with turbulent wind
- • Easier maintenance
- • Less noise
- • Bird-friendly design
The Betz Limit
The Betz limit states that no wind turbine can capture more than 59.3% of the kinetic energy in wind. This is because the air must continue moving after passing through the turbine. Modern turbines typically achieve 30-45% efficiency under optimal conditions.
Economic & Environmental Benefits
💰 Economic Benefits
- • Reduce electricity bills significantly
- • Feed-in tariffs provide steady income
- • Property value increase
- • Tax incentives and rebates available
- • Hedge against rising energy costs
- • 20-25 year operational lifespan
- • Low maintenance costs
🌱 Environmental Benefits
- • Zero operational emissions
- • Replaces fossil fuel electricity
- • Minimal water usage
- • Land can still be used for agriculture
- • Reduces air pollution
- • Fights climate change
- • Creates green jobs
Wind Speed Guide
Typical Turbine Sizes
Wind Energy Facts
How This Calculator Works
Calculation Methodology
This calculator uses established wind turbine engineering principles and formulas from the wind energy industry. It calculates available wind power using the standard formula P = 0.5 * ρ * A * v³, then applies efficiency factors and loss calculations to determine real-world output.
Key Formulas
- • Swept Area (HAWT): A = π * L²
- • Swept Area (VAWT): A = D * H
- • Wind Power: P = 0.5 * ρ * A * v³
- • Output Power: P_out = P_wind * η_total
Data Sources & Accuracy
The calculator uses industry-standard values for air density, typical loss factors, and efficiency ranges based on modern wind turbine performance data. Results are estimates and actual performance will vary based on site conditions, turbine quality, and maintenance.
Important Considerations
- • Wind is highly variable - use average wind speeds
- • Site assessment is crucial for accurate predictions
- • Local regulations may affect installation
- • Professional analysis recommended for investments
Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates based on theoretical calculations and typical industry values. Actual wind turbine performance depends on many factors including wind resource quality, turbine specifications, site conditions, installation quality, and maintenance. Professional assessment is recommended for any wind energy investment decisions.