The world’s largest wind turbine, Haliade-X, is being tested on Maasvlakte, Port of Rotterdam said in its release. This ‘test rig’ was realised via innovative cross-pollination between the American GE Renewable Energy, Sif Netherlands and Pondera Consult.
Test location Sif Netherlands is building the foundations for offshore wind farms on the 62-hectare site on Pieter van Vollenhovenweg. And it recently also started to be a test location for the Haliade-X. The wind turbine is ultimately intended for a location at sea.
Maasvlakte is located some distance from residential districts, close to the sea, has comparable wind conditions to the sea and is easily accessible. GE is also able to sell the generated electricity easily.
The wind turbine will be tested extensively over five years to enable an assessment of wind turbine performance and operational procedures. Sif and Pondera (sustainable energy advice agency) have established the ‘Future Wind’ joint venture for this. GE Renewable Energy has signed an agreement for five years of testing and fifteen years of service and maintenance.
The arrival of Haliade-X at Maasvlakte fits entirely within Rotterdam’s aim to become a leader in sustainable energy. To achieve this, the Port Authority is stimulating initiatives that result in a ‘smart’ and ‘clean’ port - and connects parties together where innovative cross pollination is possible.