BRE questions efficiency of wind turbines

A report into domestic micro-wind turbines has found that, until they are more efficient, in many applications their installation will do more environmental harm than good.

BRE Trust's report considered carbon and financial payback times of turbines mounted in a range of locations in Manchester, Portsmouth and Wick.

It found that in windy locations, such as the outskirts of Wick and parts of Portsmouth, it is possible to generate enough energy to pay back carbon costs, but in less windy urban areas, even when optimally sited, they are more of an environmental burden than benefit.

The report highlights the need for manufacturers to develop more efficient turbines with low maintenance and a long, reliable life. Until then, Martin Wyatt, chief executive of the BRE Trust, said the use of micro-wind turbines is "as likely to accelerate global warming as slow it".