GE launches 1.6-100 low wind speed turbine

UNITED STATES: GE has formally launched its 1.6-100 turbine, which is targeted at the low wind speed market.

by James Quilter 24 May 2011

GE's 1.6-100 turbine

The machine combines elements of GE’s 1.5MW turbine with its 2.5-100 turbine. The company said it has 633MW in orders for the new product.

According to GE, the 1.6-100 has a 47 percent increase in swept area compared to the 1.6-82.5, which gives it a 19 percent increase in energy production.

Invenergy is purchasing 373.8MW for three projects in the Midwest. Three Brazilian companies – Serveng Civisan, Bioenergy and Oleoplan – are acquiring 170MW, 57MW and 29MW respectively.

Victor Abate, vice president-renewable energy for GE Power & Water said: "By increasing the rotor diameter on the 1.6, our technology now offers customers the highest capacity factor in its class.

"The development of the 1.6-100 wind turbine is another example of GE’s commitment to innovation," Abate noted. "This new wind turbine offers Type Class II performance in a Type Class III environment delivering the highest capacity factor in its class."

For more on the GE1.6-100 and the company's strategy.