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NUST COLLEGE OF
ELECTRICAL & MECHANICAL
ENGINEERING

Design Analysis and Fabrication of

Roadway Wind Turbine

A PROJECT REPORT

DE-43 (DME)

Submitted by:

Abubakar Siddique (372957)

Muhammad Naveed (368570)

Muhammad Mahad Asim (389740)

Muhammad Usman Jinali (371478)

BACHELORS IN MECHANICAL ENGINEERING

YEAR 2021

PROJECT SUPERVISOR
Dr Talha Tariq

Dr Hassan Aftab Saeed

NUST COLLEGE OF
ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
PESHAWAR ROAD, RAWALPINDI
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Abstract

This project focuses on the design, analysis, and fabrication of a road side wind turbine
specifically tailored for installation along highways in Pakistan. The primary objective is
to harness the kinetic energy generated by the wind wakes of moving vehicles and
convert it into electrical power that can be used to meet the energy demands of roadway
infrastructure such as streetlights and traffic signals. Wind wake: This refers to the air
movement or disturbance caused by a vehicle’s motion. Just like how a boat leaves waves
in the water, vehicles leave a trail of moving air. This moving air can potentially be
harnessed by a wind turbine. As Pakistan grapples with a significant energy crisis, where
electricity consumption reached approximately 83,109.000 GWH in 2024 and demand
regularly outpaces supply, this project provides a novel solution to local energy
generation, easing pressure on the national grid. The road side wind turbine system will
be designed for low-cost, high-efficiency operation in environments where natural wind
speeds are typically high and also where traffic provides consistent airflow. The
generated power will either be used directly for roadway infrastructure or fed back into
the national grid to alleviate the electricity consumption burden. The project involves a
multi-phase approach, including computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations for
turbine design, the selection of cost-effective materials, and the fabrication of a working
prototype. Testing will be conducted along selected highway segments to evaluate the
system’s performance in real-world conditions. Ultimately, this project aims to provide a
scalable and sustainable renewable energy solution that can be implemented across
Pakistan’s extensive highway networks.
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Introduction

Pakistan’s energy crisis has been a persistent challenge for decades, with increasing
electricity demand driven by population growth, urbanization, and industrialization. In
2022, the country’s electricity consumption was approximately 83,109.000 GWH in 2024
but despite expanding power generation capacity, there is still a significant gap between
supply and demand. Power outages, particularly in rural areas, are common, and the
reliance on imported fossil fuels further strains the economy. The government has been
pushing for renewable energy integration, but large-scale wind farms are geographically
limited to regions with consistent wind speeds, such as Sindh’s Gharo-Keti Bandar Wind
Corridor. Given the high costs and geographic limitations of traditional wind farms, there
is a pressing need for innovative, localized renewable energy solutions. Highways in
Pakistan represent an untapped source of wind energy. Major roadways such as the M1,
M2, and N5 are heavily trafficked by vehicles moving at high speeds, which generate
substantial wind turbulence as they pass. This artificial wind, coupled with natural wind,
creates a consistent airflow that can be harnessed using vertical axis wind turbines
(VAWTs). Unlike traditional horizontal axis wind turbines (HAWTs), VAWTs are
particularly suited for low-speed, turbulent wind conditions and can capture wind from
any direction, making them ideal for highway environments. The idea behind this project
is to take advantage of the constant movement of vehicles on highways to generate
localized electricity. The VAWTs will be installed on medians or roadside sections where
they can harness the airflow generated by passing vehicles. The electricity produced by
these turbines can be used to power streetlights, traffic signals, and other highway
infrastructure, which currently depend on grid electricity, adding to the overall energy
demand. Additionally, any surplus power generated by the system can be fed back into
the national grid, contributing to the overall reduction of the energy deficit. This dual
benefit of generating localized energy while also supporting the national grid makes this
approach highly practical and efficient in addressing Pakistan’s energy challenges.
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Background and Motivation

"Our project on roadside wind turbines aims to harness the untapped potential of wind energy in
Pakistan, transforming roadside spaces into sources of clean, renewable power. By developing and
implementing this technology, I seek to provide a sustainable and environmentally friendly solution
to combat climate change and reduce the reliance on fossil fuels. Additionally, this initiative will
foster local industry and innovation, creating jobs and promoting energy independence. Ultimately,
this project embodies the vision of a greener future, where energy is sourced sustainably and
responsibly, benefiting both the environment and the economy."
Pakistan’s energy crisis and the government's push for renewable energy solutions highlight the
need for innovative ways to generate electricity. Highways in Pakistan are often characterized by
heavy traffic, which can be a source of considerable wind energy due to the air turbulence
generated by fast-moving vehicles. Traditional wind turbines require strong natural winds, which
are not consistently available in most parts of the country. By capturing the artificial wind produced
by vehicles, this project offers a localized solution to energy shortages, especially for rural
highways where infrastructure is limited.
The growing reliance on fossil fuels, particularly oil and coal, has severely disrupted our
environment, leading to climate change, air pollution, and a host of health issues. The urgent need
to transition to renewable energy sources has never been more critical. Among these alternatives,
wind energy stands out as a promising solution. While solar energy is a viable option, it is
concerning that a significant portion of solar panels is imported from other countries. This
dependency on imports not only strains the economy but also limits local technological
advancement.
Pakistan's wind energy potential, particularly in consistent wind patterns, can be harnessed to meet
energy needs sustainably, stimulate economic growth, and foster technological innovation, reducing
reliance on imported energy solutions.
Pakistan's electricity consumption is around 1,200,000 GWH per month, with 5% used along
roadsides. This contributes to the energy landscape and supports infrastructure. Implementing
roadside wind turbines can increase energy efficiency, promote renewable solutions, and benefit
nearby communities. The development of a local wind energy industry is crucial for meeting
energy demands and environmental sustainability.
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Methodology
The methodology for this project includes the following steps:

1. Site Selection: Identification of suitable highways in Pakistan where the wind wake
generated by vehicles is substantial. Traffic data, such as vehicle speeds and density, will be
used to optimize turbine placement.

2. Design: Development of a three-blade vertical axis wind turbine (VAWT) optimized for low-
speed wind environments. The design process will focus on maximizing efficiency using
computational simulations and prototyping.

3. Fabrication: Using locally available materials, the turbine will be fabricated. The turbine's
components, including the rotor and blades, will be made from affordable materials like plastic
and lightweight metals.

4. Testing: The turbine will be tested along selected highway segments to measure its energy
generation capabilities under various traffic conditions. Wind speed measurements will be taken
using an anemometer.

5. Analysis: Data on energy output, efficiency, and feasibility will be gathered and analyzed to
evaluate the performance of the turbine.

Literature Review

Vertical Axis Wind Turbines (VAWTs) have garnered significant attention in recent years for their
application in roadside wind energy harvesting. The primary motivation for using VAWTs stems
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from their simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and ability to function well in turbulent wind conditions,
especially in urban or highway settings where wind direction is inconsistent.

[Link] Harvesting from Highway Traffic:

The concept of placing VAWTs on highways is predicated on the use of wind generated by
passing vehicles. Studies have shown that highways provide a constant source of mechanical
turbulence as vehicles create a wake that can be captured by wind turbines. For instance, Kumar
et al. (2020) demonstrated that an array of low-cost VAWTs installed along highways could
harness wind energy effectively. The study found that vehicles moving at an average speed of
60-90 km/h on highways produce sufficient wake energy to rotate turbines. [1]

2. Design Considerations and Challenges:

The design of VAWTs for highway energy harvesting presents specific challenges. The turbines
need to be optimized for low-wind-speed regions, as natural wind on highways is typically
inconsistent. However, the mechanical wake from vehicles can generate localized wind speeds of
up to 5 m/s, which is adequate to generate electrical power. Studies like [3] highlighted the
importance of positioning turbines at optimal heights, typically around 1.5 meters, to capture the
most wind energy generated by vehicles [3]. Additionally, the use of Savonius-type VAWTs has
been favored due to their ability to capture wind from any direction, which is particularly useful in
environments with variable wind patterns. [1]

3. Materials and Efficiency:

Many studies have also focused on reducing the cost of materials for turbine construction.
Commonly used materials include recycled products such as plastic drums and bicycle rims, which
make the turbines not only economically viable but also easy to fabricate and install. [1] For
example, [2] designed a three-bladed helical VAWT using such materials and tested its efficiency
along highways, where it achieved a wind power efficiency of 34.6%. [4]

4. Applications and Potential:

The energy harvested from these turbines can be used for a variety of roadside applications, such as
powering streetlights, traffic signals, and charging stations for electric vehicles. The surplus energy
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generated could be fed into the grid or stored for later use. [5] Despite the current limitations in
power output, the collective use of VAWTs along long stretches of highway shows promise for
generating substantial amounts of renewable energy. [2]

Research Gap

While significant research has explored the potential of Vertical Axis Wind Turbines (VAWTs) for
roadside and highway energy harvesting, several gaps remain, particularly concerning optimization,
real-world applications, and long-term feasibility:

1. Limited Experimental Validation: Much of the existing research on VAWTs is based on

computational models and simulations, with few studies conducting large-scale, real-world
experiments. [3] Though small-scale prototypes have been developed and tested, there is a lack
of full-scale trials that assess long-term performance, durability, and efficiency in varying
traffic and weather conditions. [1]

2. Efficiency Optimization: While VAWTs are known for their ability to harness wind
energy from multiple directions, their overall efficiency remains a challenge. Studies have yet
to fully optimize the turbine designs, particularly regarding blade shape and material, to
maximize the capture of wind generated by vehicles on highways. Current designs, such as
Savonius or Darrieus turbines, have been explored but not fully optimized for both performance
and cost-effectiveness. [4]

3. Energy Storage and Integration: Although several papers mention using energy
produced by VAWTs for lighting and small-scale applications, there is a notable gap in
addressing large-scale energy storage and grid integration. [1] The intermittent nature of
vehicle-induced wind demands a reliable storage solution to ensure a continuous energy supply,
which has not been thoroughly investigated.

4. Site-Specific Factors and Installation Costs: Studies highlight that factors like vehicle
speed, wind patterns, and highway infrastructure affect energy harvesting efficiency, but
detailed guidelines for site-specific turbine placement are lacking. Additionally, there is limited
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analysis on the economic feasibility of large-scale deployments, particularly regarding

maintenance, safety, and installation costs. [5]

5. Environmental and Safety Concerns: While the environmental benefits of renewable

energy are well documented, there is limited research on the potential noise pollution, aesthetic
impacts, and safety concerns related to installing wind turbines on highways. Ensuring that
these installations do not interfere with traffic or pose risks to nearby pedestrians and vehicles
remains a critical gap. [5]

Addressing these gaps would enhance the viability of VAWTs as a sustainable energy solution for
highways, allowing for better implementation, efficiency, and scaling of roadside wind energy
harvesting technologies.

Objectives

The primary objectives of this project are:

1. Design and Development of a Vertical Axis Wind Turbine (VAWT): To create a

highly efficient VAWT that is optimized to capture low-speed winds generated by the wake of
vehicles on highways. The turbine will be designed to meet the unique conditions of Pakistan's
highways, including variable traffic patterns and lower natural wind speeds.

2. Energy Generation for Highway Infrastructure: To utilize the energy produced by

the VAWT to power highway infrastructure, such as streetlights, traffic signals, and electric
signage, thereby reducing the load on the national power grid and ensuring energy availability
for critical infrastructure in both rural and urban areas.

3. Contribute to National Grid Power Supply: To generate surplus electricity that can be
fed back into Pakistan’s national power grid. By doing so, this project will help alleviate the
country’s energy crisis and reduce its reliance on fossil fuel-based power generation.

4. Cost-Effective and Scalable Solution: To design the wind turbine system using locally
available and low-cost materials, making it affordable and scalable for widespread
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implementation across Pakistan. The design will prioritize simplicity and robustness to ensure it
can be easily manufactured, installed, and maintained.

5. Promote Renewable Energy Integration: To support Pakistan’s renewable energy

goals by providing a practical, localized, and clean energy solution that can contribute to
reducing the country’s dependence on non-renewable energy sources and cutting down carbon
emissions.

6. Comprehensive Testing and Validation: To conduct thorough testing of the VAWT

prototype under real-world conditions along Pakistan’s highways. This will include evaluating
the turbine's performance in terms of energy output, efficiency, and reliability under different
traffic volumes and wind conditions.

7. Innovate a Sustainable Energy Harvesting Approach: To explore a novel approach

to wind energy harvesting by leveraging the artificial wind generated by vehicles. This
objective will demonstrate the potential of untapped resources for clean energy generation,
offering insights that can be applied to similar environments worldwide.

8. Mitigate Pakistan’s Energy Deficit: To provide a sustainable alternative to conventional

electricity sources by generating local power through wind energy. This will help reduce the
national energy deficit and provide a reliable source of power to areas with frequent outages,
particularly rural highways where access to the grid is limited.
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Deliverables

Design Documentation:
Detailed designs of the roadside wind turbine, including structural and aerodynamic considerations.

Design Analysis:
Comprehensive analysis of the turbine design to ensure the optimal performance and stability under
varying conditions.
Analysis of Wind Patterns and Speeds:
Assessment of local wind conditions, including data collection and analysis of average wind speeds
and patterns.
Identification of the most suitable locations for turbine installation based on wind data.
Environmental Impact Assessments:
Evaluation of potential environmental effects associated with the installation and operation of wind
Strategies for mitigating negative impacts on local ecosystems and communities.
Fabrication Plan:
Outline of the fabrication process, including construction methods and timelines for the wind
turbine.
Material Selection:
Research and selection of optimal materials for turbine construction to enhance durability and
performance.
Consideration of environmentally friendly and locally sourced materials.
Cost Efficiency Analysis:
Detailed cost analysis of the project, identifying potential savings and funding opportunities.
Evaluation of lifecycle costs versus energy output to ensure economic viability.
Efficiency Increment Strategies:
Identification and implementation of methods to enhance the efficiency of the wind turbine.
Analysis of performance metrics and recommendations for improvements.

Working Principal
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1. Wind Turbine Rotation: The VAWT blades rotate due to wind generated by passing
vehicles.

2. Energy Conversion in Generator: The mechanical energy of rotation is converted

into electrical energy (AC) by the generator.

3. Rectification: The rectifier converts the AC into DC to make it suitable for battery
storage and highway infrastructure use.

4. Energy Storage in Battery: The DC electricity is stored in a 12V battery for later use
or immediate application in highway systems.

5. Measurements: Devices monitor wind speed (anemometer), voltage, current, power, and
energy to evaluate system performance.

6. Dump Load Activation: When the battery is full, excess energy is diverted to a dump
load to prevent overcharging.

This setup allows the roadside wind turbine system to continuously generate, store, and supply
electricity for highway infrastructure, reducing dependency on grid power.

Project Timeline
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Phase 1: Research
 Conduct a comprehensive literature review on Vertical Axis Wind Turbines.
 Identify the research gap and establish the project objectives.
Phase 2: Design
 Develop the detailed CAD model of the Vertical Axis Turbine using SolidWorks.
Phase 3: Analysis
 Perform the Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations to optimize the design for
performance.
 Conduct the Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to ensure the structural integrity.
It will done at the end of 7th Semester.
Phase 4: Fabrication
 Prototype Development
 Testing and Optimizing
It will be done before final year presentation.

Research Done till Date

 India (Bhopal-Indore Highway):

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 Design Analysis: A vertical axis wind turbine (VAWT) design was optimized for roadside
energy harvesting by considering factors such as vehicle speed, turbine placement, and the use
of low-cost materials like plastic drums. The wind energy potential was harnessed from the
wake of vehicles on the highway.

 Testing: Wind speed and turbine rotation were tested along the Bhopal-Indore highway, where
speeds of heavy vehicles (trucks, buses) were studied to optimize turbine design for efficiency.

 Optimization: The performance of VAWTs with and without a gap between the shaft and
blades was evaluated to optimize angular velocity and electricity generation. [1]

 Malaysia (University Malaysia Perlis):

 Design and Optimization: A study focused on reviewing and optimizing the design of
wind turbines, particularly vertical axis turbines (VAWTs) and Giromill turbines. Various
models were tested, and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations were used to
enhance the performance.

 Performance Evaluation: The study evaluated the impact of wind speed generated by
moving vehicles on the turbines placed on highways, testing the effectiveness of designs like
Darrieus and Savonius turbines. [3]

 Kuwait (King Fahad Bin Abdul Aziz Highway):

 Design and Testing: This study used Darrieus vertical axis wind turbines (VAWTs) placed
along the sides of the road. Wind speed and turbine performance were measured at different
heights, with a maximum wind speed of 5 m/s recorded at 1.5 meters height. The system was
optimized to achieve a wind power generation of 46 watts from moving vehicles. [4]

 India (Bhubaneswar, Orissa):

 Design and Prototype: In Bhubaneswar, Orissa, a new three-bladed helical VAWT model
was developed specifically for highways. The wind turbine was tested on highways with heavy
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traffic to measure and optimize performance.

 Performance Testing: The prototype was tested on national highways, measuring wind speeds
using anemometers and evaluating power output at different wind speeds. The system achieved an
efficiency of 34.6% at a wind speed of 4.4 m/s. [4]

These regions represent a variety of climates and conditions where in-depth analysis, testing, and
optimization of wind energy turbines for roadside applications have been undertaken.
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REFERENCES

[1] FYP RESEARCH PAPER\[Link]

[2] FYP RESEARCH PAPER\[Link]
[3] FYP RESEARCH PAPER\Liew_2020_J._Phys.-_Conf._Ser._1432_012059.pdf
[4] FYP RESEARCH PAPER\roadside [Link]
[5] FYP RESEARCH PAPER\[Link]