Viaducts with wind turbines claimed as new source of energy generation

Trying out new ways to generate electricity, scientists now claim that wind turbines could be installed under some of the biggest bridges on the road network to produce electricity.

After their calculations that were promoted by a Canarian company ZECSA, European researchers confirm that this concept can be applied in heavily built-up territories or natural areas with new constructions limitations.

Researcher Oscar Soto said that as natural, the more surface is swiped by the rotor, the more power can be produced.

However, it was seen that in small turbines the power rate per square meter was higher.

If only produced power was evaluated, the best solutions would be the installation of two wind turbines with different sizes in order to embrace the maximum available space or even a matrix of 24 small turbines due to their power production per surface unit and low weight, but concerning to viability, the best option is the one which includes two medium sized wind turbines.

Results confirm that each viaduct presents specific energy possibilities and wind potential.

The research is published in journal Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews.