Could wind turbines become a key renewable energy solution in urban areas? Solar photovoltaic panels have already become a common sight on rooftops and terraces, but until now, the large size of traditional wind turbines has hindered their adoption in cities. However, a new generation of urban wind turbines is now making strides. Having previously discussed blade-free wind turbines developed by a Spanish company, we now turn our attention to a new model with a striking feature: it has been designed with AI. This article explains the technology behind this breakthrough, which will help reduce the carbon footprint of buildings.
​Birmingham Blade, a custom-made urban wind turbine
The development of this wind turbine has brought together a precision metal parts manufacturer, an AI company, and the University of Birmingham to tackle several challenges. Traditionally, wind turbines need a minimum wind speed of 10 metres per second, but in Birmingham, the average wind speed is much lower, at around 3.6 m/s. With the added turbulence caused by the city’s buildings, was it even possible to design a turbine that could operate in these conditions?
The answer lies in artificial intelligence. Over just a few weeks, AI generated more than 2,000 design concepts using evolutionary design technology, which mimics natural selection. This approach helped refine the wind turbine prototype into the final version now known as the Birmingham Blade.
The device features curved blades that rotate around a vertical axis and, according to the developers, is up to seven times more efficient than previous turbine designs in the city. This novel approach allowed them to start from scratch, avoiding the limitations of earlier models while significantly reducing the costs involved.
After successful testing of the prototype, the team plans to produce an aluminum version to be installed on a rooftop in Birmingham, where it will be monitored for long-term durability and performance. The goal is to launch a compact wind turbine model by the end of 2025, bringing wind energy to urban centers. The team is also working on a version tailored to the specific wind conditions in Edinburgh.
Wind energy (and art)
Another recent innovation for urban wind energy is the “wind wall” proposed by New York designer Joe Doucet. This vertical-axis wind turbine wall features a helix-shaped design, dubbed Airiva. According to Doucet, his design can generate up to 1,100 kWh per year for each four-turbine module. The number of modules can be scaled up depending on space and energy needs. However, to power an average U.S. household, around forty turbines would be required.
Unlike the Birmingham Blade, Doucet’s design process began with sixteen initial concepts, which were then narrowed down to three prototypes and tested in wind tunnels. The process took two years of design, engineering, and testing to determine the ideal size and shape for the turbines. The aim of the wind wall is not only to generate energy but also to serve as an attractive piece of art for public spaces.
The wind wall is primarily constructed from aluminum and plastic, with the commercial version planned to be 80% recycled, reinforcing its sustainable credentials.
For those interested in even more futuristic wind turbine designs, we recommend checking out this pyramid-shaped model designed for offshore use.
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