Slipstream Energy
Name: Dr Mike Roberts
Trading Ward: Keighley
Business Name: Slipstream Energy
Website: Slipstream Energy
Email: Contact Slipstream Energy
Telephone: 01138 150046
Background of Business
It once housed a huge horizontal steam engine providing power to the whole of Dalton Mill, which in its heyday was at the heart of Keighley's textile industry.
So it's appropriate that Slipstream Energy, the latest occupant of the mill's engine room, is another power generator. But this one is eco-friendly, using advanced aerodynamics to generate ‘green' electricity from wind power.
The high-tech company, set up by a team of electronic engineers, has already won several awards for its vertical axis wind turbine.
Support Journey
Bradford Council's Kickstart enterprise support team in Keighley has boosted the firm's prospects by funding the design of a complex enclosure to house the turbine's control electronics.
Says Dr Mike Roberts, Technical Director: "Because our turbine is designed to operate efficiently in built up areas the way it looks is really important to both customers and planners.
"As most of our effort was focused on aerodynamic and mechanical engineering we didn't have the resources to design an enclosure which would convey our brand image of quality and cutting edge technology.
"With the help of the Kickstart professional services scheme we have been able to commission a design which will really enhance our product aesthetics and give us an edge over our competitors.
"Our customers comment on how good the turbine looks, a big part of this is down to the assistance of the Kickstart programme."
Where are they now
Slipstream Energy's futuristic turbine looks nothing like the standard propeller-driven types seen on hill tops. Its 5.3 metre high rotor is designed to optimise aerodynamic performance and increase power production when operating in and around buildings.
Capable of generating 10,000 units of usable, grid connected electricity in a year, the turbine can be mounted on a tower or on the roof of buildings including schools, hospitals, factories or offices.
Unlike conventional wind turbines, which perform poorly in turbulent winds and generate noise, the Slipstream turbine uses advanced aerodynamics and high strength carbon fibre blades to overcome these problems, making it a quiet neighbour in built-up areas.
Slipstream Energy is now preparing to market its cutting edge wind turbine product to clients who are looking to generate their own clean energy, while making a bold statement about their environmental credentials.
Photo by Joan Russell.
