The case for Vertical Axis wind turbines


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The Case for Vertical Axis Wind Turbines ABSTRACT Extensive studies have shown that there is enough wind globally to satisfy much, or even most, of humanity’s energy requirements – if we could harvest it effectively – and on a large enough scale. Vertical axis wind turbines (VAWTs), which may be as efficient as current horizontal axis systems, may be practical , simpler and significantly cheaper to build and maintain. They also have other inherent advantages, such as always facing the wind that may make them a significant player in our quest for cheaper, cleaner renewable sources of electricity. VAWTs might even be critical in mitigating grid interconnect stability and reliability issues currently facing electricity producers and suppliers. Additionally, cheap VAWT’s may provide an alternative to the rain forest destruction for the growing of bio-fuel crops. This paper describes some of the author’s doctoral thesis findings of a particular original VAWT design and argues for increased research and development of this technology.

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Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: Technical Proceedings of the 2008 Clean Technology Conference and Trade Show
Published: June 1, 2008
Pages: 136 - 139
Industry sector: Energy & Sustainability
Topic: Solar Technologies
ISBN: 1-4200-8502-0