A new online service highlighting the potential for small-scale wind power generation at specific locations has been launched.

The innovative web tool has been developed by applying science from the Met Office and follows a study commissioned by the Carbon Trust.

By simply entering a postcode, users can choose the relevant type of building and local environment to understand the total power yield of installing a small wind turbine.

The effectiveness of wind generation has been calculated by using historical Met Office climate data, local land use and large scale orography of the land.

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If 10% of the population installed turbines, a saving of 0.6 million tonnes of carbon dioxide is possible, generating 1.5 TWh of green electricity.

However, it is possible that some urban sites will not pay back the carbon embedded in manufacturing, production and installation of the turbine, and this new tool will help people evaluate the potential benefits of using local wind generation.

The carbon prize for rural sites is about four times that of urban due to higher wind speed conditions. This is because of the increased frictional effect caused by buildings and other urban structures.

Cathy Durston, Head of Met Office Consulting said: "By using our historical climate data, people will be able to asses the potential to place a small wind turbine at their location.

"Applying scientific expertise from the Met Office has provided the Carbon Trust with a new way of serving businesses and the public with specific wind data for their property."

(CD/JM)