Siemens’ has added the SWT-8.0-154 to its offshore direct drive platform for wind turbine technology. The 8MW turbine is based on the existing offshore direct drive platform.
The first SWT-8.0-154 will be installed in early 2017, and is designed to allow for up to 10% higher annual energy production (AEP) under offshore wind conditions, as compared to the 7MW model, and reduce the levelized cost of energy. Type certification for the 8MW turbine is expected to be obtained at the beginning of 2018. At the same time, Siemens' SWT-3.3-130 wind turbine has successfully obtained type certification from DNV GL.
The SWT-8.0-154 incorporates new magnet technology that enables a rated power increase of more than 14% from 7MW to 8MW. Similar to the previous upgrade from 6MW to 7MW, the 8MW turbine will benefit from the established supply chain and proven components of offshore direct drive technology. These components include the B75 blade and the medium-voltage transformer of the SWT-8.0-154.
“We are relentlessly working on lowering the levelized cost of energy, and the offshore direct drive platform enables us to do this with the lowest possible risk,” said Michael Hannibal, CEO for offshore at Siemens’ Wind Power and Renewables Division. “With the same proven reliability as our successful 6- and 7MW models, the SWT-8.0-154 will be the new benchmark for gearless offshore wind technology on the market.”
DNV GL type certification for SWT-3.3-130
Siemens has obtained type certification from the DNV GL certifying body for the company's SWT-3.3-130 onshore wind turbine. The direct drive machine for medium to low wind conditions is rated at 3.3MW and equipped with a 130m diameter rotor. It introduces a new generation of the proven direct drive onshore product platform. The official certificate is a further step on the way to serial production of the turbine. As part of the certification process, DNV GL experts were provided full access to the engineering design details, to Siemens assembly facilities and to the SWT-3.3-130 prototype installed at the test site in Høvsøre, Denmark. Evaluation included assessment of the maturity of the turbine design, its manufacturing, installation and commissioning processes, and the related documentation.
“Innovation is an ongoing process in the development of our direct drive technology,” said Morten Pilgaard Rasmussen, head of technology at Siemens’ Wind Power and Renewables Division. “Our direct drive technology featuring permanent magnet generators gives us a solid, forward-looking base to meet current and future demands in offshore and onshore markets.”