Power Flower by NL Architects

All images courtesy of NL Architects

Amsterdam based studio, NL Architects has designed 'power flowers' urban windmills that can be used in densely populated areas and easily be integrated into the urban landscape similar to cell phone towers, lights, electric poles and art sculptures.

Resulting from an ongoing investigation into the potential of wind energy, the turbines feature multiple branches with propellers of a reduced scale. unlike the omnipresent three-blade turbine that requires an open radius five times their diameter and a heavy duty infrastructure, can be installed where the power is actually used, create very little noise, do not need to be directed into the wind and have an interesting and aesthetically pleasing design.

The reconfigured design features a vertical axis design that can produce energy with wind from any direction. intended as a tool that can be used alongside other sustainable initiatives, the turbines can be connected to smart grids and solar panels.

This 'power flower' come in two models - a larger and a smaller - generate a range of energy output and mounting options, making it ideal for both commercial and residential use.