Distributed generation

Small wind turbines can generate electricity for use on the farm, business and home. Wind turbines can co-exist easily with other farming practices, and have been used for decades on European farms. There is a wide range of turbines suitable for use in New Zealand, ranging from micro-scale to larger commercial-scale systems. This guide to wind power schemes is aimed at a farming audience, and includes practical examples.

There is a lot of potential for small-scale hydro schemes on New Zealand rivers, streams and even irrigation systems. Hydro power is one of the cheapest ways of generating electricity on a small-scale. Small schemes (typically less than 10MW) also have less environmental impact than large ones. This guide to small-scale hydro schemes is aimed at a farming audience, and includes practical examples.

Photovoltaics can generate electricity for your home or business, either as part of a stand-alone power system, or for buildings already connected to the local electricity network.

The term ‘photovoltaic' means ‘light - electricity'. A photovoltaic system (known as PV or solar electric system) converts radiant energy from the sun directly into electricity.

A ‘Stand-Alone Power System' is worth considering if your home is not connected to the electricity network.

Stand-alone power systems let you meet your energy needs without having to meet the high costs of connecting your property to the electricity grid. They are common in rural or remote areas where electricity network connection is expensive or not possible.