Grant: Alliance Grants

In collaboration with HMA Reno, this project addresses the critical need for sustainable and renewable energy in urban environments by focusing on the installation of vertical-axis wind turbines (VAWTs) in urban residential and commercial settings. Unlike horizontal-axis wind turbines (HAWTs), VAWTs are well-suited for urban landscapes because they operate independently of wind direction and perform effectively at lower altitudes with high turbulence. This project aims to optimize the structural mounting system for VAWTs to ensure safe, efficient installation on buildings. To achieve this goal, the research team will conduct a comprehensive aerodynamic analysis to understand wind force dynamics in densely populated areas, particularly downtown Mississauga. By creating a detailed aerodynamic database that incorporates various building configurations, the team will utilize computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models to simulate wind interactions and generate data for the structural design of the mounting system. They will also develop software to analyze wind force dynamics and produce time histories for the 50-year return period forces required for the design of the turbine's structural mounting system. This research strives to ensure the safe, efficient, and cost-effective installation of VAWTs on urban buildings, maximizing the harnessing of renewable energy. HMA Reno, a leader in sustainable construction and urban engineering solutions, will contribute expertise in architecture design, structural engineering, project management and infrastructure development. Their extensive knowledge will ensure that the mounting systems are designed with precision and safety, accommodating diverse building types and configurations found in urban areas.