The old engine room of a former wool textile mill is now home to another modern-day power generator.

Slipstream energy is the latest occupant of the former engine room at Dalton Mills, Keighley, where a giant horizontal steam engine once powered the whole complex.

But the present occupant produces a device that provides eco-friendly energy, using advanced aerodynamics to generate ‘green’ electricity from wind power.

The hi-tech company, set up by a team of electronic engineers, has already won several awards for its vertical axis wind turbine.

And the Bradford Kickstart enterprise support team in Keighley has boosted the firm’s prospects by funding the design of a complex enclosure to house the turbine’s control electronics.

Technical director Dr Mike Roberts said: “Because our turbine is designed to operate efficiently in built-up areas, the way it looks is really important to both customers and planners.

“As most of our effort was focused on aerodynamic and mechanical engineering, we didn’t have the resources to design an enclosure which would convey our brand image of quality and cutting-edge technology.

“With the help of the Kickstart professional services scheme, we have been able to commission a design which will really enhance our product aesthetics and give us an edge over our competitors.

“Our customers comment on how good the turbine looks. A big part of this is down to the assistance of the Kickstart programme.”

Slipstream Energy’s futuristic turbine looks nothing like the standard propeller-driven types seen on hilltops. Its 5.3m high rotor, which resembles an egg whisk, is designed to optimise aerodynamic performance and increase power production when operating in and around buildings.

Capable of generating 10,000 units of usable, grid-connected electricity a year, the turbine can be mounted on a tower or on the roof of buildings including schools, hospitals, factories or offices.

Unlike conventional wind turbines, which perform poorly in turbulent winds, and generate noise, the Slipstream turbine uses advanced aerodynamics and high-strength carbon fibre blades to overcome these problems, making it quiet in built-up areas.

* Slipstream Energy: (0113) 8150046; info@slipstreamenergy.com; Kickstart free information line: (0800) 9539503; Airedale Enterprise Services, Keighley: (01535) 607775.