What is Renewind?
Renewind is the ultimate urban wind turbine, designed to catch the wind right above your head. Launched by Sonaca in 2017, this project cracked the code on harnessing untapped wind power in cities. Using cutting-edge aerodynamic technology, Renewind takes full advantage of the building acceleration effect — that natural wind boost you get on top of buildings — turning rooftops into sustainable energy generators. It’s not just about green energy at your doorstep anymore; with Renewind, it’s literally right over your head.
The Main Benefit: Efficient Urban Wind Energy
Renewind’s urban wind turbine is crafted to work hand-in-hand with existing solar panels, capturing wind energy even at low speeds. This means a reliable power source when the sun’s taking a break. Here are some key figures and facts that make Renewind stand out:
- 31% Performance Coefficient (Cp) — a high-performance wind energy capture rate
- 0.3 Tip Speed Ratio (TSR) — optimized rotor speed for efficiency
- Operates below 60 dB — quiet enough for urban environments
- Zero vibration engineering — stable and smooth operation
- Low maintenance — minimal upkeep needed
- Easy assembly — comes as a kit for hassle-free installation
Cutting-Edge Aerodynamic Technology
Renewind’s turbine is the result of years of aerodynamic research, borrowing expertise straight from the aircraft industry. The team adapted aerospace-grade innovations to optimize wind capture like never before. The turbine’s groundbreaking rotor design fine-tunes wind flow, delivering exceptional efficiency while minimizing noise and vibration. This tech is built to excel in the variable wind conditions typical of urban landscapes — so it’s not just smart, it’s savvy.
The Building Acceleration Effect
What really sets Renewind apart is how it leverages the building acceleration effect. Placed on the acroteria (that’s the rooftop edges) of buildings, the turbine taps into a unique aerodynamic phenomenon where wind speeds can increase by 20 to 80%. This means more energy captured without needing stronger winds. It’s like turning your building’s architecture into a natural energy booster — pretty clever, right? This innovative approach makes every rooftop a powerhouse of green energy.
Sonaca Spin-Out: Aerospace Expertise Meets Urban Energy
Renewind emerged as a spin-out from Sonaca, a leader in aircraft wing technology. This connection means the turbine benefits from aerospace-grade know-how, bringing best-in-class aerodynamic innovations straight to urban rooftops. The result? A turbine that sets new standards in efficiency, stability, and performance. It’s renewable energy, but with a serious tech edge — forged from the skies and now powering cities.
Project Impact: Supporting Global Sustainability Goals
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy — by providing efficient urban wind power
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities — integrating renewable energy into cityscapes
- SDG 13: Climate Action — reducing reliance on fossil fuels through clean energy
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure — leveraging aerospace technology for urban solutions
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production — promoting low-maintenance, sustainable energy systems
Renewind’s Role in the Future of Urban Energy
Renewind isn’t just a turbine; it’s a game-changer for how cities think about renewable energy. By combining aerodynamic innovation with smart urban design, it transforms buildings into active energy producers. Quiet, stable, and easy to install, it complements solar panels perfectly, smoothing out energy supply when the sun’s not shining. Low upkeep means it’s practical for everyday use, and its aerospace roots ensure top-notch performance. In short, Renewind is powering a greener, more sustainable urban future — one rooftop at a time.
