This study explores the potential of individual blade pitching as a control strategy to enhance the performance of vertical-axis wind turbines (VAWTs). VAWTs are promising for urban and offshore applications but face challenges in efficiency and structural integrity. The research uses a scaled-down turbine model and a genetic algorithm to identify optimal pitching kinematics at both on- and off-design operating conditions. The results show a threefold increase in power coefficient and a 77% reduction in load fluctuations at off-design conditions compared to non-actuated turbines. The optimal pitching kinematics involve outward and inward pitch maneuvers during the upwind and downwind phases, respectively, which delay dynamic stall, reduce load fluctuations, and enhance power extraction. These findings suggest that individual blade pitching can significantly improve the efficiency and structural resilience of VAWTs, making them more viable for industrial deployment. The study also highlights the importance of further testing at larger scales and developing closed-loop control algorithms to enhance the adaptability of this control mechanism.This study explores the potential of individual blade pitching as a control strategy to enhance the performance of vertical-axis wind turbines (VAWTs). VAWTs are promising for urban and offshore applications but face challenges in efficiency and structural integrity. The research uses a scaled-down turbine model and a genetic algorithm to identify optimal pitching kinematics at both on- and off-design operating conditions. The results show a threefold increase in power coefficient and a 77% reduction in load fluctuations at off-design conditions compared to non-actuated turbines. The optimal pitching kinematics involve outward and inward pitch maneuvers during the upwind and downwind phases, respectively, which delay dynamic stall, reduce load fluctuations, and enhance power extraction. These findings suggest that individual blade pitching can significantly improve the efficiency and structural resilience of VAWTs, making them more viable for industrial deployment. The study also highlights the importance of further testing at larger scales and developing closed-loop control algorithms to enhance the adaptability of this control mechanism.