Wind-Steam Hybrid Windmill

Combination of wind and steam into the grinding business of Noury & Van der Lande (Netherlands), second half of the nineteenth century.

This invention addresses the intermittency problem of wind power. It is especially suitable for regions that have both high wind and biomass resources. The windmill generates mechanical power from wind. For times when there is no wind, a steam engine takes over until the wind is back. Electricity can also be generated but this is not necessary. The wind/steam mill can pump a hydraulic fluid to drive all kinds of hydraulic implements. A grain mill is a good place for a biomass, because any kind of organic "waste" can be burned to make steam. One logical location is along waterways: for further transport of products and to provide water for the steam engine.

A triple combination (+solar) is possible in areas with good solar resources. A heliostat array can then be used to generate steam for the steam engine.

see also: No Tech Magazine