The future of energy supply in cities: Vertical small wind turbines
The energy transition has already reached urban areas. In addition to solar modules on roofs and green façades, small wind turbines are increasingly being considered as an attractive option for sustainable energy generation. Vertical small wind turbines (VKWKA) in particular are gaining in popularity. They can be easily integrated into urban environments and offer specific advantages. But what makes this technology so interesting for cities and what challenges need to be overcome? In this blog post, we take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of vertical small wind turbines in urban areas and give an outlook on their potential.
Advantages of vertical small wind turbines in cities:
1. Space-saving design
A major advantage of vertical small wind turbines is their space-saving design. Compared to horizontal turbines, vertical wind turbines require less space and can be installed on the roofs of buildings, in backyards or even pedestrian zones. This is particularly advantageous in densely populated urban areas where space is at a premium.
2. Lower noise pollution
Unlike horizontal axis wind turbines, vertical axis wind turbines generate less noise. This is because they operate at lower rotational speeds and do not have large rotor blades that cut through the air. The reduced noise pollution makes them ideal for use in residential areas.
Graphic: Sound immission map based on sound pressure level LpA,eq – with background noise (source: LS Helix 3.0 test report, sound measurement according to EN 61400-11, Lichtenegg Energy Research Park, 2021)
3. Independence from wind directions
In urban areas where wind directions change frequently due to buildings and other structures, vertical axis wind turbines can take advantage of wind from all directions. Horizontal wind turbines, on the other hand, must face the wind continuously. This can significantly reduce their efficiency in urban areas.
4. Easy maintenance
Due to their simple design, vertical axis wind turbines generally require less maintenance. The mechanical components are often easier to access and less complex, resulting in lower maintenance costs and a longer service life.
5. Aesthetics and integration
Modern vertical axis wind turbines are often characterized by an attractive design and can be well integrated into the architecture. They can serve as design elements and contribute to the attractiveness of buildings, especially in urban areas where the cityscape plays an important role.
Disadvantages and challenges of small wind turbines
1. Lower efficiency
One of the main disadvantages of vertical axis wind turbines is their lower efficiency compared to horizontal axis turbines. As they generate less energy from the wind, they must either be used more often or combined with other renewable energies to make a significant contribution to energy production.
2. Higher initial investment costs
Due to the specialized technology and adaptation to urban environments, the cost of installing vertical axis wind turbines can be higher. This higher initial investment could be a barrier to widespread adoption, especially for private households and small businesses.
3. Wind situation in cities
Although vertical axis wind turbines can cope better with changing wind directions, wind situations in urban areas are often suboptimal due to buildings, trees and other obstructions. This can further reduce efficiency and reduce energy yield.
4. Technological advances
Although small vertical axis wind turbines are technologically advanced, they are still in a phase of further development. Many models are new to the market and further research and development is needed to further improve their performance and reliability.
Potential for the future of urban energy
Despite some challenges, small vertical axis wind turbines offer a promising opportunity to make the energy supply in cities more sustainable. Their ability to integrate into existing urban structures, combined with low noise pollution and flexible use of wind energy, makes them an attractive option for the urban energy transition.
The further development of this technology and its adaptation to specific urban conditions will be crucial to realize its full potential. In combination with other renewable energy sources, small vertical axis wind turbines can make an important contribution to reducing urban CO2 emissions and making the cities of the future greener and more liveable.
Outlook for vertical small wind turbines in urban areas
The integration of vertical small wind turbines into urban energy supply systems is still in its infancy, but there are good prospects. Cities such as New York, London, Berlin and Cape Town are already experimenting with this technology and showing promising results. Political support, funding programs and public education are crucial to further promote acceptance and dissemination.
It will be exciting to see how the technology develops and what place it will take in the future urban energy world.
One thing is certain: vertical small wind turbines could play a crucial role in creating more sustainable and environmentally friendly cities.
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