A nacelle from GE Renewable Energy’s Haliade-X 12 MW offshore wind turbine has arrived at the Port of Blyth ahead of a rigorous testing programme at the Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult.
Part of £15m investment from GE in testing and R&D activities on the Haliade-X in the UK, the nacelle will undergo full indoor testing as part of an advanced technology program that will replicate real-world operational conditions.
Martin Lawlor, Chief Executive at the Port of Blyth, said: “Having supported the arrival of the Haliade-X’s 107m blade – the longest in the world – ahead of testing at the ORE Catapult earlier in the year, we are delighted to have been able to support the arrival and discharge in Blyth of the nacelle this week. We’re delighted that our partnership with the ORE Catapult continues to grow, with the combined strengths of all partners in the Energy Central scheme attracting major projects and companies to Blyth.”
Andrew Jamieson, Chief Executive of ORE Catapult, said: “Testing these world-leading technologies in the UK cements our position as a global leader in offshore wind and presents unparalleled opportunities for the UK supply chain to develop new products and services, creating jobs and generating economic benefit.”
The Haliade-X 12 MW is a multi-million investment, which GE believe will contribute to reducing the cost of offshore wind energy in order to make it a more competitive source of clean and renewable energy.
