The recent retrofit of the Eiffel Tower – the first in 30 years – included the installation of two custom-designed wind turbines. The 17-foot vertical-axis turbines look more like modern sculptures and are painted to blend in with the rest of the structure. Viewed from a distance, it would be very difficult to spot the additions to the 126-year-old Parisian landmark.
They are installed on the second level of the Tower, about 400 feet above the ground. The turbines will produce 10,000 kWh of electricity annually, roughly the amount used by the commercial areas of the Tower’s first floor. The turbines are a design specifically made for urban towers. They don’t make any noise, produce no vibrations, and are actually rather striking in appearance.
In addition to the wind turbines, the recent renovation included energy efficient LED lighting, high-performance heat pumps, a rainwater recovery system, and some rooftop solar panels on the visitor pavilion.
Although these turbines only provide a small fraction of the total energy used by the Eiffel Tower, they serve as a symbol of Paris’ commitment to sustainability. The city’s plan aims for a 25% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, a 25% drop in energy consumption, and for 25% of energy to come from renewable sources by 2020.
There was concern that Parisians would dislike this addition to their iconic landmark. Surprisingly, the French press has reacted very positively. The adoption of wind technology by one of the world’s most famous monuments makes a strong statement for renewable energy.
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The Eiffel Tower Just Got A Wind Turbine Makeover
Photo, posted October 17, 2008, courtesy of XLibber via Flickr.
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Earth Wise is a production of WAMC Northeast Public Radio.