A self-sufficient streetlight created by engineer Fernando Ximenes, of the northeastern Brazilian state of Ceará, could save up to 21,000 reais (11,280 dollars) per kilometer of public lighting.
A device in the shape of an airplane on top of the streetlight rotates 360 degrees to take best advantage of the wind, and has photovoltaic panels on the wings, so it can generate both wind and solar energy enough to supply three lampposts.
There is also a battery that can store 70 hours worth of electricity and a sensor that turns off the light during the day.
Another savings from the new technology is its cost -- 10 percent less than the traditional electrical street lighting system, because it does not require energy transmission, substations or cables.
"We have installed three test posts" with the support of the Ceará government, Ximenes, who set up his own company, Gram-Eollic, told Tierramérica.
"Public opinion that laughs at these initiatives is the greatest obstacle to alternative technologies, which is why we need efficient educational policies as well," said the engineer.
Tierramérica
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