Alternative energy is a hot topic in the environmental world. Seas of solar panels and giant windmills are emerging as our efforts at moving away from oil continue. In terms of residential architecture, a few solar panels mounted to the roof or in the yard is the most standard approach to bringing alternative energy home. Renowned designer Philippe Starck is attempting to diversify the effort with the introduction of two sleek micro wind-power turbines geared toward domestic use.

Revolutionair. Designed by Philippe Starck for Pramac.

After two years of research, French designer Philippe Starck and the Italian company Pramac unveiled Revolutionair, a collection of two micro wind turbine typologies designed for residential applications and small businesses. Revolutionair WT 400W is a quadrangular device with a power output of 400w and the Revolutionair WT 1KW is a helicoidal-shaped turbine that can generate power of 1kw when the wind blows at a speed of 14mps. The blades of both the two types are made of transparent plastic, giving the products a virtually invisible aesthetic.

Starck is best known as a designer of chic hotels, contemporary furniture and household items (check out Starck by Warendorf kitchens, K-Ray lamp for Flos, and Starck K kitchen sink for Duravit). “Energy should not be a punishment, we should create a desire among people to produce it,” Starck explained, “I would love to see them on sale in supermarkets.” The turbines, which will be made in the Tuscan city of Siena, can be placed in the garden or on the roof. Prices will begin around 2,500 euros and 3,500 euros respectively and estimated installation costs are between 1,000 and 2,000 euros. Although families could need three turbines to meet their energy needs, it is still believed that lower electricity bills could make this a cost-effective solution.

via designboom