Small roof-mounted turbines can be installed at a large variety of locations including rural, urban and brown-field areas. Each area has a number of specific requirements and consideration must be given to each of the following characteristics when choosing a suitable turbine configuration and manufacturer:

1. Noise level  
2. Reliable operation
3. Value for money
4. Minimal visual intrusion
5. Compliance with all safety requirements, structural and electrical

The turbine chosen must comply, not only with your specifications, but must also meet the demands and expectations of the planners, neighbours and the distribution network operators.

The type of turbine design that best suits an individual application will depend on the amount of electricity required to be generated, the physical size of the turbine and local area. When deciding whether or not to install a domestic wind turbine the following factors should be considered:

1. Grid connected or Stand-alone – In general, a grid-connected wind turbine can be a good proposition if your consumption of electricity is high. For low consumption, remote locations consider a stand-alone system with battery storage.

2. Location - Sites located only a hundred metres apart can be significantly different. The ideal site is on a smooth and exposed hill top or rise and clear of any obstructions within a few hundred metres - such as trees or buildings.

3. Wind speed – The average wind speed available at a site will determine the amount of energy that can be generated. To assess the average wind speed at a particular site, a general indication can be established by using the UK wind speed database.

4. Connection costs - If connecting to the grid, the site should not be so far from the property or electricity connection that the cost of connection becomes excessive.

In general, small scale domestic wind turbines can be installed just as easily as part of a retro-fit as a new build project. However, the installation of a turbine as part of a new build project is support by national Planning Policy Statement 22 (PPS22).

PPS22 introduces a new policy area for small systems by encouraging Local Planning Authorities to require that new developments should supply a percentage of their energy needs from onsite renewable energy sources. This is applicable to domestic, business and community developments. A good example of this in practice can be found in the London Borough of Merton Local Plan Policy PE.13: Energy efficient design and use of materials.