While photovoltaics is the dominant renewable energy source in Local Energy Communities (LEGs), wind energy offers complementary potentials – especially in suitable regions of Switzerland.
In this article, you'll learn what opportunities wind energy offers for LEGs and how it can be integrated.
Wind Energy Potential in Switzerland
Regional Distribution
Suitable Regions:
- Jura: Best wind conditions
- Pre-Alps: Good conditions
- Alps: Local potentials
- Lowlands: Limited opportunities
Wind Conditions
Typical Wind Speeds:
- Jura: 6-8 m/s (medium)
- Pre-Alps: 4-6 m/s (low-medium)
- Alps: Variable
- Lowlands: 3-5 m/s (low)
Wind Energy for LEGs
Benefits
1. Complement to Solar:
- Wind produces also at night/winter
- Complementary to solar
- Higher supply security
2. Suitable Locations:
- Use local potentials
- Diversify sources
- Optimal resource use
Challenges
1. Location Requirements:
- Good wind conditions required
- Geographic limitations
- Higher investment costs
2. Approvals:
- More complex procedures
- Environmental impact assessment
- Longer planning times
Integration into LEGs
Combination with Photovoltaics
Benefit:
- Solar: Day production
- Wind: Also night/winter
- Combination increases self-sufficiency
Technical Integration
Requirements:
- Grid connection
- Smart Grid Integration
- Monitoring via platform
- Billing
Economics
Costs
Small Wind Systems (10-50 kW):
- Investment: 50,000-200,000 CHF
- Cost per kW: 5,000-10,000 CHF
- Higher than solar
ROI: Typically 15-25 years (with good wind conditions)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is wind energy suitable for LEGs?
Depends on:
- Location and wind conditions
- Community size
- Budget
- Acceptance
Often: Complement to solar makes sense.
What does a small wind system cost?
Typically:
- 10-50 kW: 50,000-200,000 CHF
- Dependent on size and technology
- Higher costs than solar
Next Steps
Check wind energy?
- Analyze location: Check wind conditions
- Plan combination: Evaluate wind + solar
- Clarify approvals: Understand procedures
- Contact Upgrid: Get advice
Wind energy can complement LEGs!
Related Articles:
- Photovoltaics in LEG: Maximizing Solar Energy Use
- Solar Panels in LEG: Planning, Installation, Integration
- Hydropower in Local Energy Communities
- Energy Storage in LEG: Batteries, Hydrogen, Pumped Storage
About Upgrid: Upgrid supports LEGs in integrating various renewable energy sources. Visit Upgrid.ch for more information.