New type of wind turbine - thoughts?

That's really interesting. I wonder how the energy output would compare to that of a conventional turbine in the same spot on the same day. Because there's more movement with a conventional turbine, but it sounds like this new turbine's energy conversion system is really efficient.

KreechThat's really interesting. I wonder how the energy output would compare to that of a conventional turbine in the same spot on the same day. Because there's more movement with a conventional turbine, but it sounds like this new turbine's energy conversion system is really efficient.

apparently about 30% less energy than a traditional turbine, but they can be packed closer together.

I'm interested in seeing this advance even further. Personally I don't think the turbines with the blades are unsightly. They remind me of the old fashioned wind mills. One thing I do like about the new style is that they are less likely to kill birds.

The progress and innovation of some of these groups is simply astounding. Can't wait to see what the future holds for us.

cool video I do say. But the problem with wind turbines is once they're up and connected to the power grid, something has to produce electricity to power the people or whoever is using it. So say the power company needs the wind farm to produce 100 mega watts (MW) A year. So say there wasn't as much wind as in a peak year and the turbines only produce 70MW. So there has to be something to supply the power company that other 30MW. that is why (at least here in idaho) every big turbine is backed up by a diesel generator to produce the electricity that is being counted on when the wind isn't blowing.

But for smaller scales, like powering a battery to help power your house these could help immensely .