Feb 1 2013
Today, GE announced the 2.5-120, the world’s most efficient high-output and the first brilliant wind turbine. The 2.5-120 is the first wind turbine to bring together world-class efficiency and power output at low wind speed sites, capturing a 25 percent increase in efficiency and a 15 percent increase in power output compared to GE’s current model.
The turbine’s high efficiency and high output unlock higher returns for wind farm operators at low wind speed sites. The turbine’s advanced controls enable its 120-meter rotor, resulting in increased energy capture and greater power output in low-wind areas. The taller tower, which has a maximum hub height of 139 meters, makes it ideal for heavily forested regions in places like Europe and Canada.
“Our 2.5-120 is the first wind turbine that utilizes the Industrial Internet to help manage the intermittency of wind, providing smooth, predictable power to the world regardless of what Mother Nature throws its way,” said Vic Abate, vice president of GE’s renewable energy business. ”Analyzing tens of thousands of data points every second, the 2.5-120 integrates energy storage and advanced forecasting algorithms while communicating seamlessly with neighboring turbines, service technicians and customers.”
This advanced technology drives higher wind farm output than GE’s current offerings, improves services productivity and creates new revenue streams for customers.
Over the past year, GE has successfully demonstrated the integration of wind power and energy storage at its facility in California, delivering predictable power to the grid. The first prototype of the 2.5-120 will be installed in the Netherlands next month.
The 2.5-120 also minimizes sound emissions to meet the strictest noise requirements through advanced controls technology. In addition, the new wind turbine is optimized for IEC Wind Class III and DIBT WZ2 standards. The 2.5-120 is available for 50 and 60 Hz applications.