The world’s tallest wind turbine is being built in Schipkau, Germany, in the town of Brandenburg. The next-generation turbine, which will reach a height of 365 meters, aims to open a new chapter in onshore wind energy. The project is being led by the engineering firm Gicon and aims to maximize the potential of high-altitude winds.
The world’s tallest wind turbine is being built
The turbine’s frame, unlike the traditional closed tower design, is based on two interlocking skeleton systems. This structure is designed to maintain stability even in the strong winds encountered at high altitudes.
The turbine’s center point is positioned 300 meters above the ground, while the tips of the rotor blades reach a total height of 365 meters. Depending on the project, this height can be increased to 400 meters.
This record-breaking structure among onshore wind turbines is similar to the 368-meter Berlin TV Tower and surpasses the 312-meter Eiffel Tower. The main advantage of the height is access to stronger, more consistent winds throughout the year.
Measurements show that winds at the 300-meter level have higher average speeds and are more evenly distributed throughout the year. This allows the turbine to operate at full capacity for most of the year.
According to Gicon, this new turbine model rivals offshore turbines in terms of efficiency, while maintaining and operating costs are significantly lower. The project is expected to be operational in 2026, albeit with a one-year delay.
This massive turbine isn’t just a demonstration project. If the model is successful, Gicon anticipates the construction of up to 1,000 similar structures across Germany. The new towers will be located in areas where existing turbines are installed and won’t require additional land. This is because the blades of these turbines will operate in a way that doesn’t interfere with the wind flow of traditional turbines located at lower altitudes.
The new generation of turbines is part of a larger strategy to stratify energy production based on altitude. While solar panels operate at ground level and conventional turbines operate at mid-altitude, these giant turbines focus on generating energy from winds in the upper atmosphere. Each of the planned turbines will have a 20-year lifespan.
This system developed by the company could significantly contribute to Europe’s energy transition by maximizing the potential of renewable energy on land. What are your thoughts on this? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section below.
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