[trev.h]

OK, this is definitely not a computer query. I'm asking you all because (a) specialist forums have not replied (b) the TSG bunch of geeks always seem to know the answer to everything.

Let me just set the scene.
If I want to use a small solar cell or wind turbine to charge my mobile phone battery, then I can just hang such an item out of the window or nail it to the top of a fence post.
If I want to erect a huge solar cell or wind turbine to supplement my domestic power supply, then clearly I need planning permission.

This is a UK query.
What is the maximum size of a wind turbine I can erect in a residential garden in the UK, or the height at which I can erect it, that does not require planning permission?

I been considering building and installing a wind turbine to provide the power for a koi pond pump.
About 100 watts at 12v is what I need. It won't be connected to my domestic supply, just to charge batteries powering the pump.
Something like this
http://www.reuk.co.uk/Chispito-DIY-W...bine-Plans.htm

Looks like an interesting project doesn't it!

[Knotbored]

I don't think you have a financially logical activity here.
The koi pond pump could be much more natural looking if you used a standard windmill (wood slab sides like old farm windmills) pumping water directly-forget the electrical part. Your cellphone requires so little electricity that you couldn't recover the cost of solar cells in your lifetime.
I am all for alternative energy activities but they must have a financial payback and should not impact the look of your home (and your neighbors.)

[trev.h]

I understand what you're saying, but I cannot use a windmill style mechanical pump because the pond site is too close to the house to get good wind.

I have a large garden and a site at the end would be ideal. As you can see from the DIY turbine in the link, it's not expensive, so cost is not the issue.

I'm convinced the solution is workable, I just don't want to go to the expense of planning approval and I'm sure there must be a size limit below which I can avoid planning approval.

The mobile phone/cellphone was just a hypothetical scenario to demonstrate that a small renewable energy source would not need planning permission.

[kiwiguy]

I think you need to contact your local planning office, the requirements probably vary by county. The noise factor is a significant issue.

[PCcruncher]

Originally Posted by Knotbored

The koi pond pump could be much more natural looking if you used a standard windmill (wood slab sides like old farm windmills) pumping water directly-forget the electrical part.

No wind= no water his idea (hopefully) is to use a battery backup bank trickle charged by solar.

trev.h, I would use some thing like this : 12-volt-solar-battery-charger

[telecom69]

Have a look at this site http://www.renew-reuse-recycle.com/s...pl?id=31;n=701