This chapter presents a comprehensive review of Vertical Axis Wind Turbines (VAWTs), with particular attention to their emerging role in the renewable energy landscape. It examines the evolution of VAWT designs, their aerodynamic performance, and the operational challenges encountered in diverse environments, especially within urban contexts. Various turbine configurations, including Darrieus and Savonius types, are analyzed with respect to efficiency, adaptability to fluctuating wind conditions, and potential integration into sustainable energy systems. The discussion extends to issues of safety, ethical considerations in deployment, and the growing application of artificial intelligence (AI) techniques to optimize design and performance. While highlighting the advantages of VAWTs—such as omnidirectional wind capture, suitability for built environments, and relatively low noise emissions—the chapter also addresses key limitations, including reduced efficiency at low wind speeds and structural complexities that necessitate robust and cost-effective solutions. The chapter concludes by outlining future research directions aimed at enhancing efficiency, overcoming structural design challenges, and leveraging AI for next-generation VAWT technologies to support sustainable urban energy systems.