New generation offshore wind turbines up and running

Energy Minister, Greg Barker, has opened a new extension to the Gunfleet Sands offshore wind farm that will see the first demonstration in UK waters of the next generation of offshore wind turbines.

The turbines, made by Siemens and installed by DONG Energy, have been designed specifically to be used at sea and have the potential to significantly cut costs.

According to the Minister, many turbines currently installed off the UK coastline are variations on turbines designed for use onshore and the new generation used at Gunfleet will be more cost-effective and efficient.

Benj Sykes, DONG Energy Wind Power’s UK country manager, comments: “The offshore wind industry now provides clean energy to 2.3 million homes each year in the UK.

“Since 2010 DECC has recorded private sector announcements that could see over £29 billion of investment in renewables in the UK. This has the potential to support around 30,000 jobs across the country.”