This document discusses horizontal axis wind turbines (HAWTs) and vertical axis wind turbines (VAWTs). HAWTs face issues like requiring large towers and complex yaw mechanisms, while experiencing high stresses from cyclic loads. VAWTs have simpler designs that do not require yawing and can harvest multi-directional winds. The two main VAWT types are Savonius and Darrieus turbines. Savonius turbines have drums that produce torque from differential wind forces. Darrieus turbines use curved blades whose lift forces generate torque as they rotate. While more efficient than Savonius designs, Darrieus turbines require external starting torque. Overall, VAWTs have advantages like omni-directional operation and simpler installation