In collaboration with Flinders University, VAWT-X Energy has built and tested a 6KW prototype that it plans to install at a field site on the Fleurieu Peninsula.
The prototype is described as a first-of-its-kind vertical-axis wind turbine that the Adelaide-based startup says could also increase the sustainability of residential, agricultural and light industrial operations close to metropolitan areas.
The large standalone vertical turbine, which is designed with quiet operation and adaptability in mind, is based on the Darrieus vertical axis wind turbine (VAWT) concept which consists of curved aerofoil blades mounted on a rotating shaft.
According to Dr Amir Zanj, head of the Advanced Wind Energy Technology research group at Flinders University, the design is shaping up to be just as efficient, and potentially more so, than traditional horizontal axis wind turbines currently used in wind farms.
“Darrieus’ VAWTs can thrive across diverse environments, whether they’re set up as single units, part of urban infrastructure, or scaled up for larger wind farms,” says Zanj.
“They offer advantages like high power density on wind farms, greater stability for offshore use, and adaptability to urban areas with shifting winds – all while being quieter and more economical to operate.”
Zanj, a Flinders University lecturer in mechanical and aerospace engineering, forged a partnership with VAWT-X Energy in 2019 after founder Gary Andrews brought his visionary green energy project to the university for development.
Andrews says the new wind turbine model aims to address some of the long-standing aerodynamic challenges of the VAWT systems which typically suffer from drag co-efficiencies created by the blades rotating into the wind.
“We believe our VAWTs are not only more efficient but also more accessible for applications like off-grid power and sustainable energy solutions for small businesses and farms,” says Andrews.
“The design of these new VAWT-X Energy turbines solves some of the traditional barriers for Darrieus designs.”
VAWT-X Energy sees its solution as potentially offering a more sustainable, versatile alternative for renewable energy production in Australia.
The VAWT design is described as being more suited to sites where the wind direction is highly variable and because it is relatively quiet it can be used in residential and urban areas.
VAWT-X Energy, which is backed by private equity funding, is furthering its research and development program following a new grant from the Australian Government.
The project has already been supported by a $300,000 grant from the Department of State Development in South Australia.
