The WindTree (here in Andorra) is designed to generate electricity with minimal impact on the local population. — AFP Relaxnews
Around the world, a new type of street furniture is beginning to flourish in the form of imitation trees that generate electricity using built-in microturbines. More discreet than regular wind turbines or even solar panels, they blend in perfectly with the urban environment.
This WindTree is the work of a French startup called New World Wind. It is in fact a structure imitating the shape of a tree, equipped with several microturbines called Aeroleaves. The aim of this technology is to produce renewable energy in urban areas, offering a solution that is silent, discreet and environmentally friendly.
Standing almost 10 meters tall, the WindTree's microturbines look vaguely like leaves, blending seamlessly into the urban landscape. They can operate in very light winds, from as low as 9 km/h.
Each Aeroleaf is capable of producing up to 1,000 kWh of power per year, which means that a whole tree can generate up to 36,000 kWh in optimal conditions. That's enough to power a small building, urban infrastructure and equipment such as charging stations or street lighting.
This solution offers an aesthetically pleasing alternative to large wind turbines, which are usually located far from urban centers, and to traditional solar panels, which aren't necessarily visually attractive. However, each WindTree costs in excess of €50,000 (excl. VAT), although more compact models are available.
Developed several years ago, the WindTree has become a popular choice, and can now be seen in many global locations. There's even one at Stade Roland-Garros, the stadium that hosts the French Open tennis tournament, just outside Pairs.
The WindTree adds to a range of "green" infrastructure innovations that are increasingly being seen in cities. Another French start-up, Urban Canopee, offers "fresh islands," for example.
Taking the form of self-sufficient, connected plant-frame structures, they help to combat the effects of climate change on their own scale by providing cool refuges for residents, while helping to restore urban biodiversity. And, once again, this French solution is attracting interest from all over the world. – AFP Relaxnews
