Design and Analysis of Darrieus Vertical Axis Wind Turbines as an Energy Source for Speedboat Navigation and Lighting System

This research explores integrating a Darrieus Vertical Axis Wind Turbine (VAWT) system to enhance speedboat energy efficiency. With the rising need for sustainable marine energy solutions, harnessing wind power through VAWT technology can reduce fuel consumption and environmental impact. The study focuses on the aerodynamic design, turbine placement, and energy output estimation under varying maritime wind conditions. Vertical-axis turbines efficiently operate without needing wind alignment, making them suitable for marine use. A VAWT was mounted on a 12-meter, four-engine speedboat, powering essential systems like spotlights and navigation. Simulations and field tests assessed power generation, stability, and drag impact. At a speed of 14 knots (7.2 m/s), the turbine produced 11.39 watts, outperforming laboratory results due to uniform wind distribution across the blades. Laboratory experiments confirmed these findings, showing an electrical output of 8.2 watts, sufficient for battery charging. Increasing the wind sweep area could further boost power while maintaining stability. The Darrieus VAWT model demonstrated effective energy harnessing at lower speeds and fuel consumption reduction, highlighting its potential for sustainable maritime applications. Future work will focus on improving material durability and developing automated wind angle adjustments for optimal performance.