Topic 2-Mirco-genrrating Of Electricity Flashcards
Give examples of micro-generation?
1) roof-top photovoltaic cells
2) domestic wind turbines
What is Micro-generation?
Means generating electricity locally on a small scale - very close to where it is needed
Advantages of micro-generation?
1) does not produce carbon dioxide and so does not contribute towards green house effect and global warming
2) does not produce sulfur dioxide or oxides of nitrogen and so does not contribute towards acid rain
3) zero fuel costs
4) higher efficiency of generation
5) can sell some back to National Grid (feed-in)
Advantages of ‘roof-top’ photovoltaics?
1) they provide free electricity during daylight hours
2) the average system can generate 3kW of electricity (peak)
Advantages of domestic wind turbines?
1) they provide free electricity when the wind is blowing
2) the average system can generate 6kW of electricity (peak)
Advantages of Micro-water turbines?
1) provide free electricity from a small stream/river
2) the average system can generate 15Kw of electricity (peak)
Disadvantages of micro-generation?
1) erratic energy supply
2) cannot generate large quantities of electricity in one place
3) many locations are very limited in which types of micro-generation can be used
4) some people object to the visual impact of wind turbines and solar panels
Disadvantages of rood-top photovoltaics?
1) have visual impact on roof-tops
2) need to cover a large area to generate large amounts of electricity
Disadvantages of domestic wind turbines?
1) cause visual impact from the turbine
2) cause an impact from the noise of the turbine
3) are unsuitable for most locations - need a un-interrupted windy site
Disadvantages of micro-water turbines?
1) cause a visual impact for the turbine housing
2) cause an impact for the noise of the turbine
3) need access to a stream or river
