China Unveils World’s Largest Direct-Drive Floating Offshore Wind Turbine Prototype

China’s offshore wind industry continues to make strides in pushing the boundaries of offshore wind turbines, aiming to enhance capacity and durability. In a groundbreaking development, China Huaneng Group, in collaboration with Dongfang Electric, has successfully completed the development of the world’s largest direct-drive floating offshore wind turbine prototype.

The prototype, boasting a capacity of 17 MW, has set new records with the highest single-unit capacity and the largest rotor diameter. Unveiled on July 10, the turbine is set for further testing and verification in the waters of Guangdong.

Featuring an impressive impeller diameter of 262 meters and a rotor sweep area equivalent to 7.5 standard football fields, this innovative turbine stands at a hub height of nearly 500 feet above the water. Once operational, it is expected to generate 68 million kWh per year, providing electricity for approximately 40,000 homes.

To ensure the turbine’s resilience in challenging conditions, the design process involved overcoming various obstacles. A unique low-speed permanent magnet direct-drive motor was developed to achieve both high capacity and reliability. All key components, including the main shaft bearings, blades, generators, converters, and transformers, were manufactured domestically.

The turbine has been engineered to withstand ultra-high waves exceeding 24 meters and can endure super typhoon conditions up to level 17, with winds reaching approximately 125 to 135 mph.

Advancing China’s Offshore Wind Industry

China’s commitment to advancing its offshore wind capabilities is evident, with over 40 GW of offshore wind power already integrated into its grid. Notably, the country recently inaugurated its farthest offshore wind farm, located more than 50 miles from the shore. This wind farm comprises 98 turbines and three substations, generating 800 MW for operator China Three Gorges Corporation.

Dongfang Electric, a key player in the wind turbine sector with two decades of experience, currently offers commercial offshore turbines ranging from 4.5 to 13 MW. The company introduced its largest commercial unit in 2022 and is now testing a massive 26 MW turbine, featuring a hub height of 185 meters and blades measuring approximately 150 meters in length.

Future Innovations in Offshore Wind Technology

As China continues to push the boundaries of turbine capacity, Sany Renewable Energy has developed a test rig for turbines up to 35 MW. This emerging player in the offshore sector has secured its first orders to expand from onshore installations and has already tested its 15 MW units.

Furthermore, Sany Renewable Energy is making strides in the international market, having recently signed wind turbine sales contracts totaling 1,324 MW with three subsidiaries of India’s JSW Group and an additional 300 MW contract with the Indian subsidiary of Sembcorp Industries.

With these remarkable advancements and ongoing innovations in offshore wind technology, China is poised to cement its position as a global leader in renewable energy.