Air flow is directed towards the height at which it hits the blades directly. (Image credit: Leviathan Energy)

It's called Wind Energizer, and is a development achieved by Leviathan Energy. According to the company, their passive structure design increases wind turbine efficiency by as much as 30% in field tests, at nominal wind speeds.

The model for increasing energy output from wind turbines is to make them bigger, which means more wind energy is harnessed. There is a limit to this method, as wind turbine rotors quickly reach massive proportions. If Leviathan Energy's Wind Energizer proves to be the real thing, it could revolutionize the wind energy industry. Basically, by placing passive objects around a wind farm, the current of air is  redirected towards the wind turbine rotors – more air passes through the blades, so more energy is harnessed.

Wind Energizer is a conical surface structure placed at the foot of a wind turbine tower. It is made from steel and plastic, and its dimensions are tailored according to specific operation conditions (blade length, prevailing wind direction, wind intensity, etc). The flow of the oncoming air is shaped in a way that highest velocities hit the blades, which can significantly increase the cost-effectiveness of wind generators, according to Dr. Daniel Farb, Leviathan Energy CEO.

Initial testing had the device measured at an average 20-40% improvement in turbine output. At lower wind speeds (< 6 m/s) the turbine with Wine Energizer gained as much as 150% in power increase. Testing has been done on a smaller scale, on blades 3 meters in diameter. The company is currently exploring options for commercial scale testing and certification. Wind Energizer is expected to increase the life span of wind turbines, as well as decrease maintenance costs.