We know that wind turbines are used as a form of alternative energy in some countries. However, the problem with wind turbines would be the installation and costs involved in them, but Norway’s Wind Catching Systems thinks that they might have figured it out with a 1,000 foot array of wind turbines.
As you can see in the image above, this 1,000 foot array of wind turbines is floating on the sea and consists of no less than 117 smaller turbines. According to WCS, they claim that his Windcatcher grid is capable of generating as much as five times more annual energy compared to the world’s biggest single turbines, while also being cheap enough to make it competitive with grid prices.
With the amount of energy it generates, it is estimated that it is capable of powering 80,000 homes each. The reason why it could be more affordable is because instead of using massive single components, the Windcatchers are made out of a combination of smaller components that are not only easier to work with, but are easier to setup and also easier to maintain. WCS says that the Windcatcher system is good for 50 years of service versus the 30 years or so of a single large turbine.
The company does not mention when we can expect to see prototypes or where it will be initially installed, but it is an intriguing idea and could help the adoption of more sustainable forms of energy.
Filed in . Read more about Science and Social Hit. Source: newatlas