Gareth Ross Buddell, a UK native, has ingeniously constructed a windmill that also serves as a wind turbine in his backyard. Drawing from a design dating back to the 12th century, he is confident that this innovative structure can generate sufficient electricity to power his entire household.
Buddell’s windmill was built in his Swindon garden. He plans to evaluate its efficiency on a windy hillside. His vision extends to installing over 10,000 similar structures throughout the UK. These would serve as renewable energy sources for homes, schools, and farms.
“I think they would look fantastic,” he expressed to SWNS. “You could use them to pump up water for the farms at the top, or for heating, or you could run a line down to the school and get the school free electricity.”
Buddell is a trained classical boat builder from Falmouth Marine School. He utilized these skills to construct the windmill primarily from green oak. Buddell himself hand-sewn the sails using a curtain purchased from a thrift store. When operating at peak speed, the mill’s generator produces 100 amps at 12 volts.
To ensure historical authenticity, Buddell bought over 1,700 survey drawings of the Bourn Windmill in Cambridgeshire. Using these as a reference, he replicated the measurements and built a quarter-size replica in his garden.
Although the windmill adds aesthetic value to his hometown of Bishopsville’s main street, there isn’t enough wind to turn the sails. To fully exploit its potential, Buddell plans to move the portable mill to higher ground.
“God gives you the wind; you have just got to mill it!” Gareth stated enthusiastically. “A green oak windmill costs less than £500 to knock up and it is 100 percent renewable and recyclable.”
Buddell’s design features sails that move at lower speeds, unlike traditional wind turbines with fast-moving blades that can be dangerous. This unique characteristic has allowed him to bypass issues with local government regulations as the structure is classified as an agricultural building.
Buddell hopes to share his design with King Charles and get his opinion. He believes his innovative project could inspire others to explore renewable energy solutions for their homes.
Share this incredible DIY project with your friends who are inspired by home building.
Source: Good News Network
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