Optimized Generators (OptiGen), a start-up founded in 2023 in Barcelona, has unveiled its first 15 MW wind turbine generator design. The concept is based on the company’s patent-pending drive train technology and marks the first milestone in the Horizon Europe–funded “Lightwind Project”, which began in 2024.
The project has received €3 million to advance OptiGen’s technology from technology readiness level (TRL) 2 to TRL 4. The objective is to demonstrate technical feasibility and assess the potential benefits compared to current state-of-the-art wind turbines. The work is being carried out by a consortium of eight partners from six European countries.
The 15 MW design will support two laboratory test programmes. The first will evaluate rolling contact fatigue, while the second will examine the mechanical system at reduced scale. These are scheduled for commissioning by the end of 2025 and mid-2026, respectively.
By the end of the project in 2027, OptiGen plans to deliver an optimised version of the 15 MW design and introduce new concepts rated at 22 MW and 30 MW.
