A vertical-axis typhoon-proof wind turbine

The same company has also developed compact turbines for emergency situations

Spotted: The Global Wind Energy Council reports that, in order to meet COP28 targets, the wind industry needs to triple its annual growth from 2023 levels to reach at least 320 gigawatts by 2030. One method of meeting that target is to democratise access to renewable energy. Japanese company Challenergy is contributing to that work with a new, smaller turbine design.

Created specifically for use in harsh climates and extreme weather, the vertical-axis Challenergy wind turbines are quiet, rotate slowly, and work in areas of the world without reliable electricity. With the designs, the company founder wants to provide underserved communities with reliable sources of power while increasing the global production of renewable wind energy.

Challenergy currently offers three wind turbine designs. For regions with high-speed winds and storms such as typhoons, Challenergy’s Magnus bladeless turbine provides reliable access to power. Even in stormy conditions, the vertical axis turbine rotates relatively slowly and is not affected by rapid changes in wind direction. Plus, the design keeps collisions with birds and operating noise to a minimum.

The company’s Type D wind turbine is for emergency situations where power is needed quickly for communication devices, lights, and refrigeration. Installing this turbine only requires a space of 4.4 metres squared. And Challenergy’s Type A turbine works in extremely cold conditions, with a proprietary coating that makes it less likely ice will form on the device. With less ice and a slow rotational speed reducing the risk of ice chunks flying through the air, the turbine makes it possible for teams working in arctic environments to generate power close to where it’s needed.

Written By: Keely Khoury