Eco-business / Social Venture

August 6, 2003

 

Low-Cost Windpower Generators Run on a Breeze

Keywords: Eco-business / Social Venture Manufacturing industry Renewable Energy 

Shinko Electric Co. has developed a small, low-cost windpower generator for residential use. Designed with a vertical axis wind turbine, the system can be installed on residential rooftops and in backyards and at small commercial facilities. It could also be used to provide backup electricity for communications equipment during a disaster.

Japan's geography makes wind conditions less than ideal in many places for wind power generation. The annual average wind speed in many residential areas is less than four meters per second, and wind direction is not constant.

But with its vertical axis, this wind turbine can generate power with wind from any direction. The system is also suitable for installing in dense residential areas, since it is nearly silent when in operation. The turbine starts turning with a minimum windspeed of 0.5 meters per second, and starts generating electricity at two meters per second, just enough to move the leaves on trees. The system's simple design, requiring no starter motor, makes the low cost for the unit possible.

The price range for the basic system is between 200,000 and 400,000 yen (about U.S.$1,700 to $3,300). The company plans to start selling the system in October 2003. It will be sold as a kit, which purchasers can assemble and install easily by following the instructions on a video included with the kit. Note: The product samples are available only in Japan. They cannot respond to inquiries from other countries at present.



Posted: 2003/08/06 08:50:17 AM
Japanese version

 

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