WIND GETTING BIGGER

Goldwind developing 10MW wind turbine

James Quilter, 25 April 2012 (Windpower Monthly)

“Goldwind is working on a 10MW turbine according to its annual report for 2011…Technically, this makes Goldwind the second manufacturer to be working on a 10MW turbine. Last year Sinovel also said it was developing one although it is believed this was largely based on AMSC's SeaTitan design.

“Goldwind's plan follows guidelines set out in China’s five-year economic plan for 2011 to 2015 published last year. The government has already set out its intention of prioritising the development of 3MW to 5MW onshore and 5MW to 10MW offshore wind turbines.”

click to enlarge

“Additionally, Goldwind looks to be moving away from direct drive. The company is believed to be testing a medium-speed model fitted with a locally made gearbox, a system described as ‘half direct drive’…[because] it would be more profitable for Goldwind to sell the expensive rare earths directly at the market…

“Earlier this year, Goldwind said it was also set to unveil a 6MW prototype by the end of 1H. It has been working on the design, with German subsidiary Vensys, since 2010.”