A new rooftop wind harvesting device, developed by US-based Aeromine Technologies, can produce 50 percent more electricity than solar panels at the same cost, according to its inventors.
The devices’ static design harvests energy from airflow above buildings, making them almost noiseless and safe for migratory birds and other animals, unlike conventional wind turbines. The device uses only 10% of the space that solar panels use and generates round-the-clock energy.
This new bladeless wind energy unit is taking on the challenge of competing with rooftop solar as a local source of clean energy that can be integrated with the built environment.
An Aeromine system usually consists of 20 to 40 units installed on the edge of a building facing the chief wind direction. According to the company, the unit can keep down the energy storage capacity needed to meet a building’s energy needs, generating energy in all types of weather conditions. With a small footprint on the roof, the unit can be used alongside the rooftop solar, providing a new tool in toolkit for decarbonization and energy independence.
Buildings and the built environment contribute nearly 50% of all carbon emissions globally, according to Architecture 2030. Building operations account for about 27% of emissions, while building materials and construction, and other construction industry energy use are estimated to contribute another 20%.
