This is a story about smart grids and not necessarily about telecoms, but I had to put this in because of the cool design of these building-oriented turbines from Helix Wind. Looking like something on top of an Antonio Gaudi building, Helix Wind’s vertical turbines features long helical blade scoops that catches wind from all directions and forces it through the turbine.

The news is that Helix Wind, the maker of residential and building type wind power solutions, has incorporated smart grid technology into its Small Wind Vertical Axis Turbines. The new monitoring system named Helix Wind WTMS (Wind Turbine Monitoring System) is a solution enhancement to any Helix Wind turbine. The system monitors, records, and reports a broad variety of performance metrics in real time, including: wind speed, turbine output, inverter data, generator frequency, and a variety of other variables, the company said.

Phase 1 of the platform will monitor and report information to Helix Wind’s Network Operating Center (HNOC). The unit will be sold in two configurations. The standard unit for wired Ethernet connection retails for $1,200.00 and with the addition of a wireless based enhancement retails for $1,500.00.

“The Helix WTMS smart grid technology is compatible with all Helix Wind Turbines. Uptime, reliability, and accountability, are the hallmarks of all Helix Wind solutions and by adding an additional smart feature enhancement to the Helix product line, Helix will offer a broader array of managed solutions,” said Helix Wind Chairman & President Scott Weinbrandt. “This is the first phase of smart grid technology solutions to come from Helix Wind.”

Ok, adding smarts into turbines is a great idea. And since these units are designed to be part of the infrastructure of houses and buildings, it makes extra sense because they will have to be integrated into the power grid anyways. Any information that it can send back to the utility will facilitate optimisation of the grid.

And yes, it generates electricity and can turn your power meter backwards, but think of the kudos of having one of these on your roof. This is perfect proof that something that is good for the environment can also be good for the eyes.