The wind turbine went up a few days after Christmas, white blades whirring against the blue winter morning sky.

It generates a small amount of electricity, although more equipment is needed to deliver and store more power. But for the 30 residents of a tent city at CRAB Park, power sources like solar panels and wind power could help heat hot water for handwashing, light dark tents during the winter months and charge phones.

“The idea came from residents and former residents a year ago,” said Fiona York, a supporter of the tent city.

“When people are living outdoors and you give them that little bit of stability… you start thinking long term about resources and setting things up that are workable.”

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