What is the “From Waste To Wind” Project?
Imagine wind turbines that are not just powerful but also easy to set up and maintain. That’s exactly what From Waste To Wind brings to the table. This innovative start-up designs and builds wind turbines made from recycled plastics like PET and ASA, turning waste into clean, reliable energy. Their turbines are modular—designed to be taken apart and put back together—making repairs and upgrades a breeze. Plus, the blades are fully 3D-printed, incorporating the latest research on noise emissions and topology optimization. Targeting rural families and small companies, these turbines provide electricity day and night, whether on-grid or off-grid. And with an open-source approach, any spare part can be 3D-printed anywhere, anytime.
Main Benefits of From Waste To Wind
Here’s a quick snapshot of what makes this project stand out:
- Wind turbines made from recycled plastics like PET and ASA
- Modular design for easy disassembly and maintenance
- Blades 100% 3D-printed, optimized for low noise and efficiency
- Open-source spare parts accessible for 3D printing worldwide
- Propel-E 450 and Propel-E 3000 models suitable for both on- and off-grid use
- Propel-E 100 designed specifically for educational purposes
- Smart MPPT-controller in development to maximize off-grid efficiency
- Successfully tested for a year at a company in the Antwerp harbour
Cradle to Cradle: Upcycling Plastic Waste
From Waste To Wind isn’t just about clean energy—it’s about cleaning up the planet too. Their turbines are crafted from recycled plastics, tackling the waste problem step by step. And they’re moving away from rare-earth magnets, which come with heavy environmental and ethical costs, towards ferrite magnets. The Propel-E 450 already uses this tech, reducing the need for polluting mining practices and dodging unhealthy labor conditions. It’s a win-win: less waste, less harm, and more green energy.
3D Printing: Lightweight, Efficient, and Repairable
3D printing is at the heart of this project’s innovation. By 3D-printing key components like the blades, they cut down on material use and weight. The turbines achieve a weight ratio of just 0.45 kg per liter, competing with lightweight woods like birch. But here’s the kicker: making replacement parts open-source means you can fix your turbine anywhere, anytime, without waiting for shipping or expensive repairs. It’s energy independence, literally at your fingertips.
Smart Technology for Off-Grid Living
For those living off the grid, From Waste To Wind is developing a smart MPPT-controller. This controller keeps the turbine operating at peak efficiency, ensuring batteries charge optimally. It’s a smart solution for rural families and small businesses who need reliable power without the hassle. This tech, combined with the modular and lightweight design, makes these turbines perfect for remote locations where traditional energy sources just don’t cut it.
Project Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy – providing accessible renewable energy solutions
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – using recycled materials and promoting circular economy
- SDG 13: Climate Action – reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering carbon footprint
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – advancing sustainable technology with 3D printing and smart controllers
- SDG 15: Life on Land – minimizing environmental damage by avoiding rare-earth mining
Testing and Real-World Application
All sizes of these wind turbines have undergone rigorous testing, including a full year of trials at a company in the Antwerp harbour. This real-world testing ensures reliability and performance in various conditions. The project’s focus on modularity and open-source parts means that users can adapt and maintain their turbines easily, making renewable energy more accessible and practical for everyday use. It’s a fresh take on wind power—clean, smart, and built from waste.
