The new machine’s rotor diameter of 100 meters is an increase of 12 meters over the current 2.5MW wind turbine.
Compared to the previous machine, the enhanced 2.5xl offers a five-point increase in capacity factor and a 12-per cent increase in annual energy yield. It also has the capability to operate at sites with average wind speeds of up to 8.5 meters per second. The enhanced 2.5xl is the next generation for GE Energy’s fleet of wind turbines. A 2.5MW validation machine has been operating at Wieringermeer in the Netherlands since 2004. Originally installed and commissioned with an 88-meter rotor diameter, in August of 2006 this wind turbine was modified with the 100-meter rotor and other new 2.5xl features. The development program for the 2.5xl began more than two years ago, and has been supported by GE Energy’s wind turbine components and wind systems Centers of Excellence. In addition, the GE Global Research Center helped to develop an advanced controls system that will lead to a reduction in fatigue loads.
