A
eromine Technologies, a proptech startup based in Houston, is making waves with its patented rooftop wind harvesting platform that captures wind energy for commercial buildings at a competitive cost. Founded in 2020 by Carsten Westergaard, a veteran wind engineer and aerodynamicist, Aeromine's technology harnesses wind power in smaller footprints, addressing the challenges of traditional wind turbines in urban environments.

    The company's core innovation lies in its small turbine design, which uses a venturi system to accelerate air through a narrow neck, creating a low-pressure point that funnels wind energy into the turbine. This approach enables Aeromine to capture wind energy on rooftops, where traditional turbines are often impractical due to noise, vibration, and other issues.

    Aeromine is targeting large commercial buildings, such as distribution centers and data centers, which have significant power needs and are typically owned by large real estate companies. The company has already secured several notable customers and has six systems in the field across the US and Northern Europe.

    While wind energy faces challenges related to storage and distribution, Aeromine's technology integrates seamlessly with storage solutions, allowing it to capture excess energy during off-peak hours and release it when demand is higher. According to Mark Swanson, CEO of Aeromine, the company's levelized cost of energy is competitive with rooftop solar.

    Aeromine's wind capture technology can be deployed in both urban and rural areas, but it requires a consistent and steady wind resource. The company has already demonstrated its capabilities in various locations, including an urban setting along the Detroit River.

    Swanson, who comes from the solar industry, believes that Aeromine is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for renewable energy solutions. With a significant B round of funding expected later this year, Aeromine aims to scale up its operations and deploy hundreds of millions of dollars in project financing to accelerate growth.

    As the company prepares to enter volume production in 2026, Swanson is optimistic about the future prospects of wind capture technology for commercial buildings. With its innovative approach and competitive pricing, Aeromine is poised to make a significant impact in the renewable energy sector.