Скачать или смотреть New Technology Could Resolve Energy Dependence

FLETCHER, N.C. -- A team of Western North Carolina scientists unveiled technology Monday they believe can tap into a source of alternative energy without any impact on the environment.

A local company, called WindCatchers, has invented a system that would trap wind energy from airplanes as they take off. They say the technology will bring jobs to our communities, liberate our energy dependence and clean our air.

About 1,000 flights take off every day across North Carolina, leaving behind what David Heim believes is boundless potential.

"That's a wind generating station waiting to happen," Heim said.

His team has developed high-tech wind turbines that would be installed at the end of runways of airports. A large jet can generate winds up to 250 mph at takeoff. All that wind would be converted to power, a system that could cut significant costs at facilities like the Asheville Regional Airport.

"Our research shows that they're spending approximately 300 to $400,000 in just electric costs. We think we can cover that cost with our installation," Heim said.

At larger airports, like Charlotte or Atlanta, technologists believe their turbines could power the entire city.

But, the team has gone further than harnessing energy. WindCatchers says their technology will clean carbon from the engine's exhaust, capture thermal energy to heat the airport's water supply and create jobs across Western North Carolina.

Representatives at the Asheville Regional Airport say they're not yet ready to consider the technology without more information.

WindCatchers is hoping to some government leadership will help airport managers understand the system and get on board since Heim says the FAA does not have control over the end of the runway.

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