A wind turbine installer designs and installs small-scale wind turbines (typically 1kW to 500kW) for residential, agricultural and commercial applications. The scope of work covers wind resource assessment, planning applications, civil foundation construction, turbine erection, electrical connection to the property or grid, and system commissioning with MCS certification. MCS certification by an approved installer is required to access the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) payments for electricity exported to the grid.
What they do
- Assess wind resource - wind speed data analysis, site survey, shading and turbulence assessment
- Advise on suitable turbine types and sizes for the site
- Prepare and submit planning applications
- Notify the Distribution Network Operator (DNO) of grid connection
- Design and pour concrete foundations for mast or tower
- Erect turbine mast or tower and mount turbine
- Install inverter, charge controller and electrical connections
- Commission the system, test output and issue MCS certificate
- Register the installation for the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)
- Provide ongoing maintenance and annual service
When you need one
Wind turbines are most viable in exposed, rural locations with good average wind speeds - a specialist will assess whether your site has sufficient wind resource before installation.
Typical costs (UK, 2025)
| System size | Typical installed cost |
|---|---|
| 1kW domestic mast turbine | £15,000 - £25,000 |
| 6kW domestic/farm turbine | £25,000 - £50,000 |
| 15kW farm turbine | £50,000 - £100,000 |
| 50kW commercial turbine | £150,000 - £300,000 |
| Annual service and maintenance | £400 - £1,500 |
Wind turbine costs are high relative to solar PV, and payback periods depend heavily on wind resource. A professional wind resource assessment (using calibrated anemometer data over 12+ months) before commitment is strongly recommended for any installation above 6kW.
Qualifications and schemes to look for
MCS certification is required for any wind turbine installation that will access the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG). Both the installer and the product must be MCS-certified. Check the MCS installer database at mcscertified.com before appointing.
Membership of the British Wind Energy Association (now part of RenewableUK) indicates engagement with the professional body for the UK wind industry and access to training and technical guidance.
How to find a reputable wind turbine installer
Frequently asked questions
Does a small wind turbine need planning permission?
Most standalone wind turbines require planning permission - even small domestic turbines, as the turbine must not be within 5 times its blade diameter of any property boundary and must not be within a conservation area, AONB or World Heritage Site without express consent. Some building-mounted turbines on detached houses have permitted development rights in England under Class A(b) of Schedule 2, but only in limited circumstances. Always check with your local planning authority before installation.
What is MCS certification and why does it matter for wind turbines?
MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) certification covers both the installer and the product being installed. An MCS-certified wind turbine installation means the turbine has been tested and certified to MCS standards, and the installer has been assessed as competent to install it correctly. MCS certification is required to access the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) - the scheme under which small generators can earn payments for electricity exported to the grid. Without MCS certification the system cannot join SEG.
How much electricity does a small domestic wind turbine generate?
A typical 5kW domestic wind turbine in a good wind location (average annual wind speed of 6 metres per second or above) may generate approximately 8,000-10,000 kWh per year - roughly 2-3 times the annual electricity use of an average UK household. However, the actual output is highly site-dependent - turbines in sheltered urban locations or areas with lower average wind speeds will generate significantly less. Wind resource assessment before installation is essential.