Can turbines be building mounted?

Turbines can be mounted on buildings, though the turbulence effects of the building can present significant impacts on turbine performance. To work effectively the turbine needs to be well above the building and any surrounding buildings. Because of the effects of turbulence, it is generally recognised that buildings are not the ideal first choice for mounting a turbine. The loads imposed by the wind on the turbine mast are considerable. Where a turbine is to be mounted on to a building the building must be capable of withstanding these loads and any vibration effects. Installing a turbine to a new building where the building has been tailored to accept a turbine presents few problems. Retrofitting to an existing building can be much more difficult and many buildings will not be suitable. In all cases, a structural engineer must be consulted. Access for inspection and maintenance also needs to be considered for building mounted turbines. Chimneys are not generally suitable for mounting a turbine and must be avoided if the chimney is still in use.