Wind energy for homeowners
Windspire turbine from Mariah Power (Image: Mariah Power)
The eggbeater design of the vertical axis wind turbine is nothing new but it may be the wave of the future.
A small company in Nevada is testing the efficiency of their vertical turbines; if they pass muster, the relatively inexpensive windmills may soon be on the market for homeowners.
The concept isn’t new. Vertical axis turbines have been around since the late nineteen-twenties. But they never took off like the popular three-blade propeller-type turbines because they weren’t very efficient. Now, they’re making a comeback because of better materials and designs…and a push for clean energy.
A small Reno, Nevada startup company called Mariah Power is certainly convinced. It’s testing a vertical-axis turbine in Utah with an independent engineering firm. They plan to start selling the turbine this year for about 5,000 dollars, including installation. Most small wind turbines cost at least twice that.
Hosted by Steve Curwood, "Living on Earth" is an award-winning environmental news program that delves into the leading issues affecting the world we inhabit. More "Living on Earth.
PRI’s coverage of social entrepreneurship is supported by the Skoll Foundation.
The World is an independent newsroom. We’re not funded by billionaires; instead, we rely on readers and listeners like you. As a listener, you’re a crucial part of our team and our global community. Your support is vital to running our nonprofit newsroom, and we can’t do this work without you. Will you support The World with a gift today? Donations made between now and Dec. 31 will be matched 1:1. Thanks for investing in our work!