Siemens Wind Power has installed the latest version of its offshore direct drive wind turbine at the national test centre in Østerild, Denmark. The SWT-8.0-154 is rated at 8 MW, and is equipped with the proven 154 metre rotor. The new offshore turbine was installed on a steel tower at a hub height of 120 metres. The prototype will undergo mechanical and electrical testing. The final type certificate is expected for 2018.
On full commissioning, Siemens will enter the final development phase for the new turbine that allows for up to 10 per cent higher annual energy production (AEP) under offshore wind conditions than the 7 MW model. The 8 MW rating will be achieved with only a few component upgrades, including a new cooling concept and a new control system.
Michael Hannibal, CEO Offshore at Siemens Wind Power, said: “The installation of the SWT-8.0-154 prototype in Østerild is an important milestone in the success story of our offshore direct drive wind turbines. The evolution based on our platform strategy demonstrates that innovation to lower the cost of wind energy can work without compromising the proven reliability of a technically mature product.”