Score - Sustainable Construction in Rural and Fragile Areas for Energy efficiency

The following guidelines come from a deep analysis of case studies, norms and regulations, in relation to the local level. This analysis is summarized in a card that can be downloaded in English language.

The most widely used tool for creating wind energy is known as the wind turbine, which is a large windmill-like structure that is equipped with a generator/alternator that is used to create electricity as the wind circulates the turbine blades.
In Cyprus the use of small wind turbine is not as such widespread as in other countries of the European union due the fact there is no advertising of wind turbines in Cyprus there is an uncertainty about the efficient of a small wind turbine on the aesthetic of the house.  Cyprus government does not give any incentives for those who install wind turbines systems in their houses. There is also need for a building permit.
Wind turbines have a advantages but also disadvantages. Some of the advantages are: Wind energy is friendly to the surrounding environment, as no fossil fuels are burnt to generate electricity from wind energy, wind turbines take up less space than the average power station, Another advantage of wind energy is that when combined with solar electricity, this energy source is great for developed and developing countries to provide a steady, reliable supply of electricity. The disadvantages are Noise Disturbances, Wind Can Never Be Predicted.

Pursuant to the guidelines written above, here are synthetically reported the criteria/examples for pilot projects to be financed in MED territory, in relation with the specific treated theme. These criteria/examples, together with the ones resulting from all the themes of eco-construction tool matrix, will make up a Bio-construction Action Plan for each partner countries

• Public utilities must also manage the political considerations of how to market the new energy, in some cases allowing customers to pay an additional fee for energy from renewable sources such as small wind turbines
• The Cyprus government should give some incentives for those who install small wind turbines in their houses, maybe tax exemption for the money they spend building the house or even low bank interest for the loan. In this way people will have more motivation for installing small wind turbines
• Inform people about the benefits (environmental, low long term  cost) of wind energy , maybe, some programmes on television, distribution of leaflets, etc.

Possible criteria for MED bio–housing quality certificate

The use of small wind turbines (400 W to 10 kW) in Cyprus is recommended in non-urban areas. The installation requires a free area around them, without any obstructions affecting their exposure to wind, to ensure efficient operation (Order 2/2006 of the Town and Country Planning Act). For wind systems from 30 to 100 kW it is necessary to conduct a preliminary environmental study, pursuant to Law 140(I) / 2005 "On the assessment of the environmental effects of certain combined projects”. The reason that so far there are not several wind turbines connected to the grid is due to the licensing procedures for small wind turbines by the Planning Authority and urban constraints for the installation of small wind turbines.

Case studies

• Showroom GEVO – Limassol
• Ayii Anargyri Natural Healing Spa Resort

Download PDF (English language)