- In July 2024, Ryse Energy, a UK-based leader in decentralized renewable energy systems, acquired Primus Wind Power, a U.S.-based manufacturer of micro wind turbines. This strategic acquisition adds the proven AIR turbine technology—with over 180,000 units installed globally—to Ryse Energy’s portfolio, significantly expanding its capabilities in the residential and off-grid energy markets. The move is expected to fast-track the production of American-manufactured Ryse Energy wind turbines, enhance its presence in North America, and unlock new opportunities for hybrid renewable energy systems across global markets
- In July 2024, German renewable energy developers VSB Group and NextWind announced a major repowering project for the Zörbig wind farm in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany. The plan involves replacing 27 aging turbines—including Vestas V80, V52, and Enercon E66 models—with 16 modern Vestas V172 units, effectively tripling the farm’s capacity from 40.5 MW to 115.2 MW. This upgrade will significantly boost energy output while reducing the number of turbines, showcasing the efficiency of modern wind technology. The project is expected to be commissioned by 2027 and will supply clean electricity to approximately 80,000 households
- In February 2024, the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) launched the latest round of its Competitiveness Improvement Project (CIP) to support the commercialization and market growth of small and medium wind turbine technologies. The 2024 CIP places a strong emphasis on cost savings and revenue generation for rural small businesses and farmers, aligning with the DOE and USDA’s RAISE (Rural and Agricultural Income & Savings from Renewable Energy) initiative. The program offers cost-shared subcontracts and technical support to U.S. manufacturers, helping them overcome barriers in design, certification, and market entry
- In April 2023, Dutch company Airturb launched a hybrid power system that combines a 500-watt vertical-axis wind turbine with a base of four 30W monocrystalline solar panels, designed for off-grid and rooftop applications. The system, engineered and assembled in the Netherlands and manufactured in Turkey, features a helical Savonius-style turbine, a DualVolt hybrid inverter, and a galvanized steel and rubber base. This compact, pre-assembled unit is tailored for residential and remote energy needs, offering a sustainable solution that leverages both wind and solar energy to enhance energy independence
- In May 2023, Western Railways in India installed mini windmills at Khar Road and Naigaon railway stations in Mumbai as part of a pilot project to harness wind energy generated by passing trains. Each installation includes five vertical-axis wind turbines, capable of producing between 1 kW to 10 kW of electricity. The turbines are designed to rotate as trains approach, converting aerodynamic force into usable energy. Encouraged by the initial success, Western Railways plans to expand the initiative to other stations, reinforcing its commitment to green energy and carbon footprint reduction
