Wind Power for Cities

Iowa has made large investments in wind farms. However, Iowa's cities and towns don't need to be left out to dry. Here's a look at the possibilities of wind power in cities.

From CEOs for Cities...

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.