A VAWT is a Vertical Axis Wind Turbine. The most common type of wind turbine is a HAWT (Horizontal Axis Wind Turbine), which has blades that spin about a horizontal shaft and must be constantly aligned with the wind. VAWTs are designed with blades that attach to a vertical shaft, like the blades of an eggbeater. They accept wind from any direction and can be mounted near ground level. Thus, they are easier and safer than HAWTs.
