Wind Power reveals 10MW turbine design

The international architectural firm behind the Eden project, Grimshaw, has revealed the design of the massive machine, which will rotate on its axis and stretch approximately 275m from blade to tip. It is believed the first turbines will be built in 2013-14 following two years of testing.

The unveiling of the Aerogenerator X design is the conclusion of an 18-month feasibility study called the NOVA project undertaken by Cranfield University, Qinetiq, Strathclyde University, Sheffield University and Wind Power Limited, supported by consultant engineers and project managers.

Funding for the NOVA feasibility project was provided by the Energy Technologies Institute, a public private partnership comprising BP, Caterpillar, EDF, E.ON, Rolls-Royce, Shell, BP, EDF, EON, Caterpillar, the UK government and Wind Power Limited.

Wind Power Limited is not the only company looking to build 10MW offshore turbines. US wind company Clipper Wind announced plans earlier this year to build the 10MW Britannia turbines in north-east England. Norwegian firm Sway is developing floating wind turbines, anchored by a single flexible tether, which have their backs to the wind.