Mixer-Ejector Wind Turbine

Mixer-Ejector Wind Turbine


Program:
OPEN 2009
Award:
$8,325,400
Location:
Waltham, Massachusetts
Status:
ALUMNI
Project Term:
02/22/2010 - 03/31/2013

Technology Description:

FloDesign's innovative wind turbine, inspired by the design of jet engines, could deliver 300% more power than existing wind turbines of the same rotor diameter by extracting more energy over a larger area. FloDesign's unique shrouded design expands the wind capture area, and the mixing vortex downstream allows more energy to flow through the rotor without stalling the turbine. The unique rotor and shrouded design also provide significant opportunity for mass production and simplified assembly, enabling mid-scale turbines (approximately 100 kW) to produce power at a cost that is comparable to larger-scale conventional turbines.

Potential Impact:

If successful, FloDesign's new turbine would accelerate adoption of mid-scale wind turbines in locations that were previously not possible, while helping position the U.S. as the leader in advanced energy technologies.

Security:

Enabling electricity generation from alternative energy sources like wind can alleviate reliability and security concerns associated with the electric grid.

Environment:

Facilitating the widespread use of clean energy reduces the level of greenhouse gases released by electric power generation across the U.S. each year.

Economy:

Enabling alternative sources of energy like wind and solar can help stabilize and reduce the price of energy, helping consumers and businesses move towards consumption of clean electricity at a price cheaper than coal.

Contact

ARPA-E Program Director:
Dr. Mark Johnson
Project Contact:
Mr. Frank Madden
Press and General Inquiries Email:
ARPA-E-Comms@hq.doe.gov
Project Contact Email:
fmadden@fdwt.com

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Release Date:
10/26/2009