Eclectic Energy's D400 Stealthgen turbine is billed as being the turbine of choice for leader of the Tories David Cameron. Eclectic's background is in making small turbines for yachts. This small turbine is rated at 400W - but this is at a windspeed of 16 m/s, a near gale force wind! At 12.5 m/s (the windspeed most turbines are rated at), you would be looking at an output of more like 270W.

d400 power output curve

The graph below shows the typical power produced (in Watts) for the D400 at different wind speeds. The graph below shows the power outputs you might expect to get at different wind speeds (shown in metres/second) with this turbine. This is based on manufacturer-supplied data, not independent tests.

cost

Typical cost is £875 including VAT, but not installation. You will probably have to find a specialised installer to do that for you.

our view

Despite the vote of confidence from the Tory leader, we're not convinced about this machine. Eclectic Energy have a good track record in making wind turbines for use at sea, but their move into the domestic, roof-mounted market is a relatively recent one. We only know of one existing domestic customer installation in Peckham, South East London, and there are also a couple to be seen on the Elephant & Castle roundabout in South London.

The price appears cheap, but the power yields of the Stealthgen are very low compared to its rivals. Despite its comparatively low cost, this machine is not going make much of a dent in your electricity bills.

UK grants available?

The D400 does not yet have government accreditation so the turbines aren't eligible for grant funding.

available voltages

12 Volt • 24 Volt

more information

Eclectic Energy on 01623 827829 and http://www.d400.co.uk

Compare this turbine with similar sized machines listed in our independent index of small wind turbines.

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