GE unveils 5.3-MW onshore wind turbine

GE Renewable Energy on Monday introduced a new 5.3-MW onshore wind turbine model with a two-piece blade design as part of a new platform boasting enhanced logistics and siting features.

A prototype of the 5.3-158 machine is currently being manufactured in Salzbergen, Germany, and is slated for commissioning by end-2018.

The 5.3-158 machine, is the latest addition to the platform, called Cypress, which builds on GE’s 2-MW and 3-MW fleets and utilises architecture from the 4.8-158 turbines. It offers an up to 50% increase in annual energy production (AEP) as compared to the 3-MW platform and allows “significant” AEP improvements, increased servicing efficiency, as well as better transportation and siting potential, the unit of General Electric (NYSE:GE) said.

The new turbine model will be designed for IEC S class wind speeds using a doubly-fed induction generator and longer blades, which were developed by GE’s Onshore Wind business, GE’s Global Research Centre and Danish subsidiary LM Wind Power. According to the wind turbine marker, the longer blades enhance AEP and lower the levelised cost of electricity (LCOE), while facilitating installation at previously inaccessible sites.

The GE 4.8-158 turbines, which were launched last year, are also part of the Cypress fleet. “This platform, which reflects our relentless focus on quality, will enable our customers to achieve a new level of competitiveness in the power generation marketplace,” said Pete McCabe, CEO of GE’s Onshore Wind business.

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