Wind power Features for April 2011

Wind power Features Archive

New methods for measuring the wind New methods for measuring the wind

Although computer models of wind flow over terrain have improved dramatically in the past few years, there is still no substitute for data recorded at the site.

Comment: German wind more stable year-to-year than Fukushima reactors Comment: German wind more stable year-to-year than Fukushima reactors

Critics of wind energy often charge that wind energy is too ‘unreliable’ to generate a large portion of a nation's electricity and suggest that base load needs ‘reliable’ sources of generation such as nuclear power.

GE returns offshore with new turbine GE returns offshore with new turbine

GE has returned to offshore wind for full with the introduction of its GW 4.1-113 direct drive offshore wind turbine at the European Wind Energy Association’s annual conference and exhibition (EWEA 2011) in March this year.

Getting the balance right in developing countries Getting the balance right in developing countries

Renewable energy can have wide-ranging social and economic benefits for developing countries, as well as contributing to the climate change agenda. But a balance needs to be struck between public subsidies, the charity sector and private investment.

Offshore Wind: Which comes first – The developer or the supply chain? Offshore Wind: Which comes first – The developer or the supply chain?

The offshore wind industry is facing a massive ramp up ahead of Round 3 developments in the UK. But with few developers setting up shop in the UK and a hesitant supply chain waiting on firm orders before investing in upgraded facilities, will Round 3 deliver on time, and on budget? Renewable Energy Focus’ Kari Williamson travelled to one potential cluster in North East England.

Preview: Keep the blades turning Preview: Keep the blades turning

The forthcoming March/April print issue of Renewable Energy Focus will be publishing an article on the need for wind industry players to share understanding of the Operation and Maintenance issues involved in wind farm development...