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Vertical Sky, the next generation wind turbine for sustainable, silent and decentralized energy production.

Periodic Reporting for period 1 - Vertical Sky (Vertical Sky, the next generation wind turbine for sustainable, silent and decentralized energy production.)

Reporting period: 2019-08-01 to 2019-11-30

Vertical Sky is a disruptive wind turbine solution using a vertical axis configuration. Our innovative approach includes a patented active pitch control system to maximise the efficiency of the blades at each position in the rotation. This SME Instrument Phase 1 project is a study of the feasibility of Vertical Sky and the planning of the future developments of the project.
The feasibility study has examined Vertical Sky from the technical, commercial and financial prespectives.
Technically, the control system has been reviewed to better define the requirements for the further development of the Vertical Sky software for pitch control. The processes for manufacturing of the physical components of Vertical Sky, including a new gearbox and tubular tower design, have been analysed and a route for their optimisation proposed. A programme of further testing and the future EIC Accelerator project have been proposed. Technical risks associated with those have been identified, as well as associated mitigation actions.
Commercially, a detailed market analysis has been prepared, including also regulatory and certification issues. Intellectual property rights have been examined to confirm the freedom to operate. Based on this a commercial strategy has been developed, including communication and disseminations activitites.Commercial risks have also been identified and mitigation actions proposed.
Financially, the financing needs of the project and the projections for the company have been calculated.
Vertical Sky will be the first commercially viable vertical axis wind turbine at the megawatt scale. Because the blade tip speed is significantly lower, Vertical Sky is three times quieter than a conventional horizontal axis wind turbine. As a result Vertical Sky can be placed much closer to populated areas. It will have a significant impact on the distributed generation market, making renewable electricity generation using wind power viable for industry and commercial activities. Distributed generation is a key piece in the global strategy to reduce fossil fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions in the fight against global warming.
Artist’s rendering of Vertical Sky positioned near a residential area
Artist’s rendering of Vertical Sky in a commercial distributed generation application