(Published in the July 2004 issue)
Check out how windbelt will power the third world.
The newest idea for harvesting the wind is nearly 900 years old. Vertical windmills, like the Wind Tower (right) from Windaus Turbines of Ontario, can crank out 50 percent more power than conventional, horizontal-mounted designs. Windaus says this is because the blades catch the wind regardless of the direction from which it blows. Although remains of foundations for vertical windmills dating to 1150 have been found in France, it is only with the advent of lightweight composites that the design has become practical. Windaus believes the inherently quiet operation of vertical turbines will also spur wider interest in wind power. For more information, go to www.windausenergy.com/contactframe.html.