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Advancing urban energy: a transition to segmented micro or macro grid systems via vertical axis wind turbines with integrated energy storage
Author(s)
Davids, Leslie Terence
Date Issued
2026
Type
master thesis
Publisher
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
Abstract
In recent years, the energy supply in Cape Town has gradually changed from coal generation to renewable energy sources. Ratshilengo, Sigauke, and Bere (2021:1) emphasise that "renewable energy forecasts are critical to renewable energy grids and backup plans, operational plans, and short-term power purchases." This design project aimed to develop a set of design principles for the City of Cape Town but needed to be adaptable to similar cities globally. I investigated whether the urban integration of energy storage systems within a microgrid was viable as a renewable energy source in Cape Town for microgrid applications. The aim of the design project is to develop a design for a custom vertical-axis wind turbine with built-in energy storage within a microgrid context. My objective for this research was to establish the design factors that are important in achieving the desired goals of efficiency and compatibility for a custom vertical-axis wind turbine in the context of Cape Town. A qualitative research approach following a design process was used and primarily focussed on the Delphi technique to facilitate the design project with a focus group of experts in the energy generation field. Using the Delphi method, these experts assisted in determining the design criteria for the vertical-axis wind turbine design and its energy storage system, as well as establishing the microgrid integration. The design project revealed that effective implementation of vertical-axis wind turbines requires several factors, including the geometry of the blades to capture energy, the variable nature of the wind, and modular energy storage.
Additional information
Thesis (MTech (Design))--Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2026
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198043082_Davids, Leslie.pdf
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23.96 MB
Format
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