Helix Wind Turbine
A helix wind turbine is a relatively new design that is specifically made for use in urban areas. If you have looked into buying a wind turbine to offset a proportion of your energy costs then you probably already know that in many cities and towns there are various factors which make traditional wind turbines not worth considering.
Usually an urban area will have strict regulations that govern the installation of any objects on a building. You may find that due to the noise and potential threat to birds, in certain areas they are simply prohibited. Also it is vital to realise than in a built up location the wind patterns and flows will be very different than in a natural setting.
If you do live in a city and yet are determined to get a least a percentage of your electricity from a renewable source than a helix wind turbine would be the best option. These are different from most models of turbines in so much that they are capable of utilizing vertical gusts of wind and not just horizontal.
In cities you will find many drafts that go up and down the sides of buildings. By tapping into this movement you will be able to produce electricity. The propellers are generally seen as more acceptable in the inner city and suburbs as the larger pole mounted versions.
The way in which a helix blade spins is seen as being more efficient then the traditional aerofoils that have been used. The older versions of wind turbines would lose a lot of energy simply through the way in which the blades would block the wind. A helix blade makes no such problem; they have a high rotation threshold.
You are probably wondering just how much power such a gadget can give. Well, this will depend upon the model you choose as well as your location and the time of year. It is possible to run a household completely off the power generated from a helix wind turbine, though it is vital to have a back up if you hit a period of cool days.
If you happen to live in a city that is known for its wind, for example Chicago, then it may even be possible for you to produce more energy then you require and then sell the excess to the national grid. You can make a nice small income using your helix wind turbine in this way.
