Increased rotor diameter on GE’s 4.8MW turbine should reach industry’s maximum Annual Energy Production rate to date.
The new 158m diameter rotor blades are part of a new machine targeted for low to medium wind speed sites, and capable of providing power to around 5000 homes.
The turbines will be constructed at more moderate wind sites such as Germany, Turkey and Australia.
The turbine also meets a lower standard of noise emission levels, accomplishing a 104-dB level during normal operations.
Pete McCabe, president and CEO of GE’s onshore wind business said, “The 4.8–158 design is an important next step in turbine technology and efficiency, and we’re excited to introduce this turbine at this moment in time.
“It is well suited for low to medium wind speed regions worldwide—examples include Germany, Turkey and Australia—as well as for mechanisms like auctions, as countries around the world are putting an increased emphasis on lowering the cost of energy.”