Beijing to capture subway wind to generate electricity

As soon as he returned to Beijing, Zhong started to research the wind with several young people in his department. They found that wind generated on the highways was too scattered to be harnessed. However, not only were there enclosed spaces suitable for wind to accumulate in subways, but also long tunnels convenient for collecting wind energy. Soon after, Zhong started testing for wind power on all subway lines in Beijing. It turned out that it was theoretically possible to recycle the wind energy generated from subways using technology. They will install windmill-like collectors close to tunnel walls every few meters. These will collect the wind produced when the train zooms past. The wind will be transformed into electric power which will be held in electricity storing equipment at subway stations and used for lighting and billboards in stations.

However, the cost of researching and producing the equipment is very high. Reporters learned that the average cost of installing a windmill in a tunnel is around 1,000 yuan, and the investment required for one tunnel section is approximately 320,000 yuan. On the other hand, a windmill results in an annual saving of electricity of 240 yuan per year. The cost is estimated to be recovered in three or four years.

In May 2009, the research project on harnessing wind energy in subway tunnels was approved by the Ministry of Construction. On June 14, a model of the technology was shown during Beijing Energy Saving and Environmental Protection Exhibition, and received a lot of attention. Zhong’s next step is to apply for project approval in Beijing to carry out simulation tests with subway stations and other related departments. What they need most at present is capital.

Zhong Yan said that energy saving is no longer a matter limited to environmental organizations and businesses, as its lasting benefits are beneficial to all. Reporters learned that overseas, scientists are studying new ways to generate electricity. All ideas come from daily life, such as generating power from vegetables and kites. In the future, harnessing wind resulting from human activities will become a reality.

Translated by LOTO