Dallas Love Field Airport is testing a new sustainable energy production method that harnesses the wind generated by departing aircraft.
The wind from airplanes can be used for electricity production. (Photo: Yahoo)
This collaborative initiative between the airport and JetWind Power focuses on harnessing the wind created by takeoff aircraft and converting it into electricity, as reported by Yahoo on August 29. First introduced in 2017 at the Airports Going Green conference in Dallas, JetWind Power’s technology captures energy from artificial wind using turbines. In other instances, the air suction chambers can be utilized to collect wind energy generated by ships and vehicles.
“This sustainable technology will transform the transportation and energy industries, not just aviation,” said T. O. Souryal, the founder of JetWind Power.
At Dallas, the turbines are placed next to the control tower, allowing operators to determine how much energy can be harvested and whether the turbine can withstand the wind’s force. Dallas Love Field Airport indicated that the electricity generated by the turbines will be used to charge electric vehicles at the Federal Aviation Administration’s control tower. According to Souryal, a Gen5 turbine at Los Angeles International Airport has the potential to produce 300 megawatt-hours annually. The savings from reduced electricity costs are expected to offset the turbine’s cost within 12 months.
According to the International Energy Agency, aviation accounted for 2% of global carbon emissions in 2022. Exploring ways to harness energy from aircraft will enhance sustainability and mitigate global warming. In 2021, the U.S. government set a target for the aviation industry to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. JetWind Power’s technology is sure to contribute to achieving that goal.
