Abstract: In a vertical axis wind generator incorporating a circular turbine supported by an uppermost part of an upstanding support, a stator surrounding and coaxial with the turbine comprises an upper annular body positioned adjacent and or above the upper end of the turbine and having an uppermost surface which over at least a part of its radial width is inclined downwardly towards the vertical axis, a lower annular body positioned adjacent and/or below the lower end of the turbine and, extending lengthwise between the annular bodies, a plurality of circumferentially spaced blades define the venturi. Preferably, the undersurface of the lower annular body over at least a part of its radial width is inclined upwardly towards the vertical axis. The wind energy convertor will convert into mechanical energy the energy of a wind blowing in any direction and is capable of self-starting, irrespective of the direction of the wind.

Abstract: Apparatus for converting the energy of the wind into mechanical energy for use in the generation of electricity comprises an upstanding column a fan which is freely rotatably mounted on the column and which comprises circumferentially spaced, radially extending blades and, supported by and freely rotatable about the axis of the column, a turbine which surrounds and is radially spaced from the column and which comprises circumferentially spaced blades extending lengthwise with respect to the column. Preferably, an annular body is supported by the column and has an upper surface of such a shape as to encourage laminar flow of the wind over its surface. Preferably, also, over an upper part of its length immediately below the fan the column has circumferentially spaced, helically extending fins 4 defining passages wind being caused to flow upwardly within the passages to form a vortex.