The wind turbine will have a rotor diameter of 145mt. In cooperation with the Norwegian technology firm Smartmotor, Sway has developed the concept with a view towards reducing turbine weight and the number of moving parts, as well as the use of a gearless generator system.
Overall, the concept is expected to result in higher energy generation for offshore wind power, and also lower operating costs. As many as 35-40 engineers have taken part in the work to develop the concept that will now undergo testing.
Nils Nakstad, executive director of Enova, said: “Enova is dedicated to helping promote projects that can bring us closer to achieving the goal of commercial generation of offshore wind power. We regard this specific project as being very exciting. It represents a considerable ramping up of current technology, in which diverse Norwegian expert communities have cooperated to develop a totally new wind turbine design.”
Eystein Borgen, managing director and founder of Sway, said: “Enova’s support can help bring Norwegian technology to the global forefront when it comes to wind turbines that float or rest on the seabed. The funding will enable us to maintain the necessary rapid progression, as well as lay the foundation for total project financing. This is a huge inspiration for everyone involved in the project.”
