A common technique for siting wind turbines to good effect is placing them at the summit of steep hills or close to ridges which overlook the surrounding landscape. This is particularly useful where the turbine has a wide view facing the prevailing wind direction in the area. However, complex terrain modelling is often required in order to eliminate the risk of flow separation producing excessive turbulence and hence fatigue on the turbine.

At elevated locations, especially where they sit above much of their surroundings, higher wind speeds are often experienced: The wind crossing the lower area becomes compressed as it meets the exposed side of the hill. Once the air moves above the ridge it expands again and speeds up as it moves into the lee side of the hill, where the air pressure will be lower.

The wind actually starts being forced upwards some distance from the hill. This is down to the high pressure area formed by the wind blowing against the hill extending a fair distance from the hill. The actual distance varies depending on the wind strength. This does mean that the wind is more likely to meet the turbine without having passed through any obstacles, such as buildings or trees. 'Cleaner' air, i.e. air which has suffered little or no disturbance, provides more turning power for a turbine.

However rough ground or unusual local conditions can result in turbulence. This would disturb the air approaching the turbine and both prevent efficient operation and cause wear and tear on the turbine.

The optimum location of a turbine is not just a function of wind speed variation across a site but also depends on planning constraints and grid connection requirements.