Currently, most offshore wind turbines are between 80m and 125m tall and generate around 3-4MW. Danish turbine manufacturers Vestas have teamed up with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries to produce a turbine that is 220m tall with a power rating of over 8MW. The V164 wind turbine is bigger than the London Eye and the 80m blades are being manufactured at a facility on the Isle of Wight. Could this next generation of wind turbines be part of the solution to the energy crisis?

History of Offshore Wind Generation

Historically, European countries have been world leaders in offshore wind generation. Here in the UK, we now have the largest capacity of offshore windfarms, with Denmark not far behind. The technology continues to improve and the Chinese have started to increase their capacity for energy generation from wind. By 2020 it is expected that 4% of Europe’s power needs will be generated by offshore windfarms.

The New Generation

These predictions may prove too conservative once the new generation of wind turbines comes online. In summer 2018, the first V164s should start converting wind power into energy from a windfarm in Burbo Bank in the Irish Sea. 32 turbines will be installed – generating enough electricity to power 230,000 homes.

The Future of Turbines

In the future, turbines look set to be even bigger. One American design – the Segmented Ultralight Morphing Rotor – could be scaled up to dwarf the Empire State Building. This turbine could generate up to 50MW and has been designed to shut-down during hurricanes. This was all part of the US department of energy’s plan to meet 20% of electrical energy requirements with wind power by 2030. Although, with the current establishment’s stance on renewables, all bets are off as to whether this turbine will ever see the light of day. 

Jobs in the Renewables Sector

If you are interested in the science and engineering of the modern wind turbine, a job in the renewables sector could be perfect for you. We are currently advertising 7 positions in this sector – seeking to pair up employers with candidates that have the correct skillset. If you would like to discuss your next career move, please don’t hesitate to contact us. 

We have experienced recruitment professionals who will be able to answer your questions. Call us on +44 (0)1502 564892 or email us at headoffice@peoplewithenergy.co.uk.

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