Wind turbines are often seen as ugly. They are big, bulky and obtrusive, and their purpose is limited to generating clean energy. However, there are some turbines that don’t exactly fit this description–they’re closer to art installations than wind farms.<\/p>\n
In Tunisia, TYER Wind has designed wind turbines that mimic the movement of a hummingbird, the only bird that can hover and fly backward. These turbines are fitted with wings–not blades–that flap to convert the wind’s energy into electricity. They are both environmentally friendly and beautiful, especially when viewed against the backdrop of a sunset.<\/p>\n
V-AIR produces several wind turbines, including the HoYi, a 1-meter-tall turbine. The smallest of the company’s turbines, the HoYi is perfect for streetlights or boats but is strong enough to last through hurricanes. In El Paso, Texas, artist Vicki Scuri designed a project to show the potential for wind energy in the state. Partnering with two other businesses, V-AIR installed wind turbines on top of towers near the airport.<\/p>\n