"The world's largest wind turbinecurrently being tested off the coast of Chinahas blades that are more than twice as long as a Boeing 777's wingspan. It can generate 26 megawatts (MW) of energy, more than double the global average for individual turbines. But its record is about to be smashed to smithereens: another offshore wind turbine that is twice as powerful has been announced by Ming Yang Smart Energy, a company based in southern China."
"With a capacity of 50 MW, this supersized structure is designed to float on the ocean's surface and can withstand typhoons, according to the company, which plans to start making the turbine later this year and to deploy it next year. Though Western manufacturers such as Siemens Gamesa are also pushing for bigger and bigger turbines, the trend has been particularly dominant in China after the government stopped subsidizing offshore wind farms in 2022, forcing developers to find ways to save money."
A current offshore turbine tested in China produces 26 MW with blades more than twice a Boeing 777's wingspan and a tower as tall as a 63-story skyscraper. Ming Yang Smart Energy announced a 50 MW floating turbine designed to withstand typhoons, with manufacturing planned later this year and deployment next year. The push for larger turbines has accelerated in China after offshore wind subsidies ended in 2022, prompting developers to lower costs. Larger turbines require longer blades to capture more wind and reduce the number of units, saving on transport, construction and installation fees that form 70–80% of project costs.
Read at www.scientificamerican.com
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