Description
The wind energy sector is working on the path of ever becoming more cost-competitive with fossil fuels. The levelized cost of energy, without subsidies, at sites with good wind resources, has fallen from nearly €200/MWh in 1984 to €52/MWh. The increasingly larger wind turbines and the efficiency improvements implemented are two of the main reasons for this cost reduction. Gamesa has currently one multi-megawatt onshore wind turbine model: the G128- 4.5MW (4.5MW rated power and 128m rotor diameter) based on proprietary technology and designed specifically for Gamesa onshore sites. In order to complete its product portfolio for onshore sites, Gamesa will develop an onshore wind turbine with a rated power of 5MW. The project will allow reducing the cost of energy, better adapt to client needs and simplify logistics.
Summary of project results
Within this project Gamesa has developed a new onshore wind turbine with a rated power of 5MW, adapted to the main features of wind (Class III, Class II and Class I). This has implied the need to carry out a number of complementary developments, namely: new strategies for wind turbine control, new CFD model that has allowed to improve the design of the thermal conditioning systems of the main wind turbine components (converter, gearbox ...), new 64.5 meters infusion blade with optimized structural design, new Ice Prevention System integrated in the blades, optimized design of the nacelle and hub components, new electrical system and new concepts of hybrid towers and concrete towers. All these developments has been successfully validated, so the outcome of the project is considered very positive by Gamesa, having developed a new wind turbine that will become a world leader in the onshore market.
Summary of bilateral results