The pillars of newly designed bladeless wind turbines shake back and forth from the vortices created by the movement of air around the structure, generating electricity.

More of the units can be closely placed together despite the 30% reduction in energy. Source: Vortex, Image credit: IHSA Spanish startup—Vortex Bladeless—is using magnets to adjust the turbines to get the most from whatever the wind speed happens to be. Once the structure begins to vibrate, an alternator at the base of the device converts the mechanical movement into electricity.

Vortex claims that energy produced by its turbines will cost around 40% less than energy generated by conventional turbines. Part of that cost reduction comes from expected reduced maintenance. Because the Vortex technology does not have moving parts or gears, it should last longer and will not require periodic lubrication. The relatively simple design also could mean that manufacturing costs are reduced. The company claims that costs could be about half those of a traditional wind turbine.

Vortex also says that while its bladeless design captures around 30% less energy than a conventional turbine, it is possible to fit more of its models in the same area.

The company says it is working on several different sizes. Its "Mini" is a 41-foot model that may be ready for commercialization in 2016. A larger industrial-scale model is in the works for 2018.