Vertical Axis Wind Turbine Advantage

The Vertical Axis Wind Turbine, or VWAT, is not a brand new idea, nor is it unique to Vertical Wind. Its solution is superior because of its robust construction and precise design.

VWATs offer a number of advantages compared to turbines with the traditional horizontal axis:

They do not need to face into the prevailing winds, eliminating the need for a yaw mechanism.

The generator itself can be placed on the ground, where it can be made larger and is easier to service.

The generator is driven directly, eliminating the need for an extra gearbox and improving generating efficiency.

Because the supporting tower does not need to support the generator and gearbox, and because the blades are much lighter, the tower can be less massive, reducing impacts on views and on nearby radar installations.

With horizontal drives, the tall towers and blades (up to 90 meters long) are difficult to transport. Transportation costs can be as much as 20 percent of the construction cost.

VWATs are much easier to install than their horizontal cousins, since they don’t require tall and expensive cranes and skilled operators.