Green beams breathe life into green energy. Sometimes, there is more to certain objects than meets the eye. This is the case with a Dutch wind farm, where the wind turbines are more eccentric than initially perceived. At nighttime, this wind farm transforms into a mesmerizing light show, completely reshaping views of wind energy. Its goal is straightforward, but will this unique turbine design convince onlookers that nature and technology can thrive together?
Shining the light on conventional wind turbines
Nations from all over the world are actively working towards achieving their respective climate goals. Among these nations is the Netherlands, which has set out four legally binding targets. The goal is to decrease greenhouse gas emissions to a certain level compared to 1990 levels. Four distinct years have been set out to achieve these targets, namely 2030, 2035, 2040, and 2050.
To achieve these climate targets, the Netherlands has been investing in renewable technologies, with wind energy being the primary driver. The nation’s wind energy capacity has expanded significantly, but the renewable solution still faces challenges. A certain movement known as the “Not In My Backyard” has made the adoption of conventional wind turbines exceptionally difficult.
Many remain concerned about the visual and environmental impact of these wind turbine installations. However, Dutch artist Daan Roosegaarde has decided to shine a light on the value of wind turbines’ green energy.
When the wind blows, light falls into darkness
The Netherlands has created quite an uproar with some of its wind turbine installations, including offshore turbines that support marine life. However, Roosegaarde’s wind energy innovation is unlike any other design. His design can be seen at the Eneco wind farm, located in Zeeland. The wind project is called Windlicht, which literally translates to “wind light,” ideal as these wind turbines illuminate the sky.
Roosegaarde mentioned that the inspiration for his innovative Windlicht came from the Kinderdijk windmills. Kinderdijk’s construction dates back to the 1740s and is central to Dutch heritage. The goal of the project was to integrate Dutch heritage with modern technology, with green energy being the main theme. This goal was certainly achieved, as Windlicht transforms wind energy into stunning interconnecting green lasers.
While the generated wind energy contributes to the grid, it also plays a fundamental role in reshaping perceptions. But how do they create light?
Reshaping perceptions of green energy
Each turbine blade emits a green laser beam when turned by wind energy. The blades are installed with high-tech software and tracking technology that synchronizes each turbine’s rotating blades. The blades reach a maximum speed of 280 km/h (174 mph). As the software tracks these speeds, green LED laser beams are emitted. The result is a mesmerizing light show that illuminates the night sky.
The goal of most functional art designs, such as the Aeolus Wind Pavilion, which produces acoustic wind melodies, is to reimagine green energy. The Windlicht project symbolizes the harmonious duality of renewable energy with nature. This zen symbolization is brought to life with the visual representation of green energy. The renewable energy company, KPN, supported this project.
“The update that the artwork gives to the landscape represents important values such as sustainability and connectedness.” – Eelco Blok, the CEO of KPN
The Windlicht project was completed in 2016, with the captivating green laser beams light show unveiled for the first time in March. The interactive play of light and wind completely reshapes perceptions of green energy. Perhaps the “Not in My Backyard” movements will also be convinced otherwise. For now, the Netherlands continues to face resistance, seeing as there were no bids for new wind farm projects in the North Sea.
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