Traditional wind farms require constant wind speed and direction - they also tend to be big, rural, expensive and controversial.

The Chicago company, Aerotecture, has taken a different if not opposite approach.  Their turbine is designed to not only work in swirling urban wind, but to be incorporated into building structures themselves.  By using a helical blade, this system can capture variable wind directions and speed.  The lightweight and versatile design allows for units to be used vertically or horizontally as well as daisy-chained together for more power.  Aerotecture also claims they are quiet, safe (for birds) and inexpensive.

Be sure to check out the Mercy Lakefront SRO designed by Helmut Jahn.  The structure is oriented and shaped for better airflow to the row of turbines along the roof.

Check out the Aerotecture website here.

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