Japanese innovator seeks to become an 'Earth Doctor'

Guest contributor, Stacy Smith, writes about Environmental Technologies, an innovative company doing its part in the fight for the environment.

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I recently joined the company Environmental Technologies LLC (ETC) as Director of Public Relations.  I have been working with its President and CEO Mr. Osamu (Sam) Ikeda since last year, when I translated its webpage and other documents. 

ETC is proud to be unveiling its one of a kind Vertical Shaft Wind Turbine (VSWT).  The technology for this revolutionary product has been 18 years in the making, and it is finally being realized with the first installation at SUNY Sullivan County Community College.  The ground-breaking ceremony took place last November, and the turbine’s foundation was built shortly after.  Due to snow and cold temperatures work has ceased for the winter season, but it is expected to resume in April and the turbine to be operational in May. Once it has been built, it will be used to generate electricity for the university and incorporated into the curriculum as students will be able to monitor its productivity.  

The VSWT is unique for several reasons. 

1. One is that it can convert wind power to electric power with up to 70% efficiency, more than double that of a conventional propeller turbine.  The fan blades attached to the vertical shaft are able to accept wind from any angle and this contributes to this efficiency.  The sensor on top senses the wind direction, a motor turns the retractable blades horizontally 90° and the turbine rotates smoothly. 
2. At 111 feet, the VSWT stands much shorter than propeller turbines, where the biggest complaint is that they are eyesores that ruin the landscape. 
3. It emits no low wave sound, thereby avoiding noise issues. 
4. The VSWT presents little danger to birds and bats because they are able to easily recognize it, as opposed to the rotating blades of a propeller which cannot be detected in time to be avoided, a phenomenon known as “motion smear.”