Gamesa concludes installation of the prototypes for the new G126-2.5 MW and G132-3.3 MW wind turbines

Gamesa has completed installation at the Alaiz R&D facility (Navarra) of the prototypes of its newest turbine models: the G126-2.5 MW and the G132-3.3 MW.

The G126-2.5 MW turbine is already producing power, while the G132-3.3 MW will start to do so in the coming days.

Once up and running, the next step will be the intensive work required to have both models certified, a process expected to conclude within the first half of next year.

Assembly of the two turbines began in August and was carried out virtually in parallel. The various parts, including these turbines’ large-scale blades (62 metres in the case of the G126-2.5 MW and 64.5 metres in that of the G132-3.3 MW) were transported to the Alaiz mountain range from various parts of Spain:·

• Aoiz (Navarra): blades
• Ágreda (Soria): hub and nacelle
• Burgos: gearbox
• Reinosa (Cantabria): generator
• Valencia: converter

The annual output of a single G126-2.5 MW or G132-3.3 MW will provide enough energy to supply some 2,500 or 3,000 homes, respectively, and prevent the emission of 6,400 or 7,900 tonnes of carbon dioxide.

The prototypes of the G114-2.1 MW and G132-5.0 MW turbines are also currently installed at the Alaiz complex.

The new models: technological excellence

The G126-2.5 MW is custom-designed to deliver maximum profitability at low wind speed sites. This model combines a rotor spanning 126 metres in diameter, nominal capacity of 2.5 MW and a range of tower heights to choose from (84, 102 and 129 metres, among other customisable features depending on site conditions).

Offering the most compelling cost of energy in its segment, the G132-3.3 MW guarantees maximum output at medium wind speed sites. This turbine, targeted primarily at the European, Mexican, Canadian, Australian and South African markets, comes in four different tower heights, ranging from 84 to 134 metres, so that it can be tailored for each region’s specific requirements. Moreover, this new turbine’s blade, which is made from fibreglass and spans 64.5 metres, features a new family of aerodynamic edges which increase annual output while minimising noise emissions.

The company is showcasing these new turbines models at WindEnergy Hamburg 2016, one of the most important trade fairs in the sector, which is on until 30 September.