London Eye architect Marks Barfield has suggested to Ken Livingstone, the mayor in London, that half of the city's renewable energy goals will be met by installing thousands of wind turbines. Barfield and a team of specialists including engineers and environmental consultants has calculated that by installing 40 m high, Y-shaped structures every 24 hectares, placing 600 along the river Thames, 1800 around the M25 and 4170 along 580 km of main roads in the capital, half of the mayor's aim to generate 665 GWh a year from renewable sources can be met.
So instead of the black smoke coughing chimneys on every roof that have symbolized the old London we might see 40 meter (120 feet) high Y-shaped windmills rising above the city's rooftops and becoming the landmark of London.
Urban Wind Turbines
Concept Would Convert Downtown London to Renewable Energy
Trend Themes
1. Urban Wind Power - The construction of wind-turbines within urban vicinity presents an opportunity for renewable energy, reduction in carbon dioxide output, and improved urban aesthetics.
2. Vertical Wind Turbines - The use of vertical wind turbines with a Y-shaped design infrastructure can provide sustainable energy solutions while also adding a unique character to urban cityscapes and skyscrapers.
3. Roadside Windmills - The increased installation of wind turbines along major roads presents a cost-effective and non-intrusive method to power cities with renewable energy and reduce carbon footprint.
Industry Implications
1. Renewable Energy - The urban wind power trend presents a new opportunity for organizations and initiatives aimed at increasing sustainable energy usage and reducing carbon emissions.
2. Urban Infrastructure - Urban infrastructure industries such as construction and architecture can embrace the vertical wind turbine trend as a chance to incorporate sustainable energy solutions and aesthetically-pleasing design into their work.
3. Energy and Environmental Consultancy - The installation and maintenance of urban wind turbines provides opportunities for energy and environmental consultancy firms to provide solutions and consultations regarding renewable energy implementation and sustainable development.