Two Companies That Are Changing Small Wind
November 12, 2007 by Ali
Filed under Small Business
Wind power is getting a lot of attention these days as a fast growing segment of the renewable energy industry. While many of the headlines focus on “big” wind - industrial wind power - there are several companies working to advance wind power for residential use or “small” wind.
Personally, I’ve daydreamed of installing a turbine for home use. Unfortunately, my last home was part of a community association where even planting a perennial required permission let alone installing a wind turbine. But two companies are making wind power at home a more feasible endeavor for homeowners.
Quiet Revolution
Quiet Revolution popped up on my radar last year with their vertical axis wind turbine (VAWT) the QR5. This small scale turbine uses an elegant triple helix design to capture winds from all directions. It’s aesthetically pleasing but also quieter than most wind turbines. It’s applicable to urban settings and is central to the “greening” of major UK pub chain JD Wetherspoons, see Raise a Glass for Renewables at TreeHugger.
Inhabitat has a great write up on Quiet Revolution with lots of pics here.
Helix Wind
Similar in spirit to the QR5, Helix Wind’s Savonious 2.0 is also a VAWT but this turbine takes things even further into feasibility. Using long helical blade scoops, the Helix uses a unique design to capture multi-directional winds. Also a small scale turbine, the Helix operates at a low decibel level and is ideal for urban settings.
Also covered by Inhabitat at Helix Wind Turbine: Small Wind gets Smart.
Both of these companies are making it possible for homeowners to tap into wind power with cost-effective products that are visually appealing, quiet and versatile. You can watch Helix Wind’s You Tube spot below to see for yourself how small wind is being revolutionized.
Also visit online at Helix Wind and Quiet Revolution, both companies have extensive information on their websites.
Helix Wind Savonious 2.0
You might also like:
Cape Wind on Nantucket
UK Wind Power Reaches Milestone at BBC
Hi, Ali:
I’ve always been interested in wind as a power source. Have you checked out Jiminy Peak Ski Resort in the Massachusetts town of Hancock? The resort installed a wind turbine earlier this year to help provide power. It’s the first ski resort to do this.
I definitely have to check that out! I grew up near Jiminy Peak - it’s where I learned to ride the ski lift actually. I will be visiting that area soon so what a great excuse for a field trip, go see some renewable energy in action. Thanks Dan!