Connect with us

Published

on

 

Floating Wind Turbines

Introduction New Technology of Wind Energy

The world of wind energy is constantly evolving, with new technologies emerging to make wind farms more efficient, powerful, and environmentally friendly. 

The wind industry is also focused on developing technologies that minimize the environmental impact of wind farms. This includes studies on the impact of turbines on birdlife and marine mammals, as well as developing quieter and more visually appealing turbine designs.

Here are some of the most exciting advancements:

1. Floating Wind Turbines:

One of the biggest limitations of traditional wind farms is their dependence on land. Floating wind turbines break this barrier by being anchored in deep waters, where wind speeds are stronger and more consistent. This opens up vast new areas for wind energy development, especially in countries with limited land availability.

2. Larger and More Efficient Turbines:

Wind turbine technology is constantly pushing the boundaries of size and efficiency. Modern turbines have blades that can reach over 200 meters in diameter, capturing significantly more wind energy than their predecessors. These advancements lead to increased power generation and lower costs per unit of electricity.

3. Advanced Materials and Design:

New materials like lighter and stronger composites are being used in turbine blades, allowing for longer spans and increased efficiency. Additionally, innovations in blade design, such as twisted or oscillating blades, are being explored to optimize performance in different wind conditions.

4. Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics:

Artificial intelligence (AI) is playing an increasingly important role in wind farm optimization. AI algorithms can analyze wind data and turbine performance to predict power output, optimize turbine placement, and improve maintenance schedules. This leads to more efficient and reliable wind energy production.

5. Integration with Other Renewables:

Wind farms are increasingly being integrated with other renewable energy sources like solar and storage. This creates a more flexible and resilient energy system, as different sources can compensate for each other’s variability.

6. Environmental Considerations:

The wind industry is also focused on developing technologies that minimize the environmental impact of wind farms. This includes studies on the impact of turbines on birdlife and marine mammals, as well as developing quieter and more visually appealing turbine designs.

Floating Wind Turbines

Floating Wind Turbines

Anchoring Clean Energy in Deep Waters

Imagine towering wind turbines, not firmly rooted on land, but gracefully dancing atop the waves. This is the captivating reality of floating wind turbines, a revolutionary technology unlocking the vast potential of offshore wind energy.

Breaking Free from Land’s Grip:

Traditional wind farms are limited by the shallow waters their fixed-foundation turbines can handle. But floating turbines break free from this constraint, venturing into the boundless depths where wind speeds are stronger and more consistent. This opens up a treasure trove of renewable energy in regions with limited landmass or challenging coastlines, like Japan and Portugal.

Engineering Marvels:

These majestic giants of the sea are feats of engineering ingenuity. Their foundations, often resembling semi-submersible platforms or spar buoys, provide a stable base even as waves surge around them. Sophisticated mooring systems, incorporating chains and anchors, keep them tethered to the seabed, ensuring they weather the fiercest storms.

Harnessing the Ocean’s Might:

The deeper waters offshore offer not just stronger winds, but also steadier ones. This translates to higher capacity factors, meaning these turbines generate electricity more consistently than their land-based counterparts. Think of it as a reliable friend, always there to lend a hand (or rather, a gust) when you need it most.

Scaling Up and Beyond:

The technology is still in its early stages, but the growth potential is immense. Governments and energy companies are pouring investments into research and development, aiming to make floating wind cost-competitive with traditional sources. With larger turbines and improved designs on the horizon, the future looks bright for these ocean-borne powerhouses.

Floating Wind Turbines

Floating Wind Turbines Projects

Anchoring Clean Energy: A Voyage Through Floating Wind Turbine Projects

Floating wind turbines are no longer a futuristic dream, but a tangible reality revolutionizing the renewable energy landscape. These majestic giants dance atop the waves, harnessing the ocean’s boundless wind power in previously inaccessible deep waters. Let’s embark on a voyage through some of the most groundbreaking floating wind turbine projects currently making waves:

1. Hywind Scotland (United Kingdom):

Pioneering the way, Hywind Scotland stands as the world’s first operational floating wind farm. Commissioned in 2017, this project off the coast of Aberdeenshire boasts a single 6MW turbine, proudly generating clean energy for over 5,000 homes. Its success paved the way for further advancements in the technology.

2. WindFloat Atlantic (Portugal):

Venturing further into the Atlantic, WindFloat Atlantic showcases the scalability of floating wind. This Portuguese project, operational since 2020, features three 8MW turbines, powering around 60,000 homes and showcasing the technology’s potential for large-scale energy production.

3. Kincardine Offshore Windfarm (United Kingdom):

Claiming the title of the world’s largest floating wind farm at the time of its completion in 2021, Kincardine Offshore Windfarm off the coast of Aberdeen boasts five 8MW turbines. This project not only generates clean energy for over 55,000 homes but also serves as a testing ground for innovative turbine designs and grid integration solutions.

4. Hywind Tampen (Norway):

Demonstrating the adaptability of floating wind to harsh environments, Hywind Tampen braves the icy waters of the North Sea. This project, operational since 2022, features five 8MW turbines powering an offshore oil and gas platform, showcasing the technology’s potential for decarbonizing industrial operations.

5. St Brieuc Offshore Wind Farm (France):

Looking ahead, the St Brieuc Offshore Wind Farm in France promises to be a game-changer. Scheduled for completion in 2025, this project will boast 62 11MW turbines, generating enough clean energy to power over 830,000 homes. Its sheer scale highlights the immense potential of floating wind to contribute significantly to national energy needs.

Floating Wind Turbines

Table of Floating Wind Turbines Projects Worldwide

Table of Floating Wind Turbine Projects (Sorted by Capacity)

Project Name Country Year Commissioned Number of Turbines Total Capacity (MW) Status
St Brieuc Offshore Wind Farm France (2025, Planned) 62 682 Under construction
Kincardine Offshore Windfarm United Kingdom 2021 5 40 Operational
Hywind Tampen Norway 2022 5 40 Operational
WindFloat Atlantic Portugal 2020 3 24 Operational
Hywind Scotland United Kingdom 2017 1 6 Operational
WindFloat Atlantic II Portugal (2024, Planned) 2 22 Under development
TetraSpar Floating Wind Project France (2025, Planned) 20 200 Under development
Goto Offshore Wind Farm Japan (2023, Planned) 7 49 Under development
Moray West Project United Kingdom (2027, Planned) 85 1190 Under development
Coexist Project Portugal (2026, Planned) 20 200 Under development

Notes:

  • This table is the same as the previous one, but sorted by total capacity (number of turbines multiplied by turbine capacity).
  • Projects under development are included with their planned capacities.

I hope this sorted table provides a clearer view of the capacity of different floating wind turbine projects. 

Benefit of Floating Wind Turbines

Floating wind turbines, those majestic giants dancing atop the waves, offer a treasure trove of benefits for both clean energy production and environmental well-being. 

Let’s dive into some of the key advantages of this revolutionary technology:

Harnessing the Untapped:

  • Access to stronger, steadier winds: Unlike their land-based counterparts, floating turbines venture into deep waters where wind speeds are more consistent and powerful. This translates to higher energy production and more efficient electricity generation.
  • Unlocking vast new areas: Land constraints are a thing of the past! Floating turbines open up previously inaccessible deep-water regions, expanding the potential for wind energy development, especially in countries with limited landmass.

Environmental Champions:

  • Reduced visual impact: Gone are the concerns about visual clutter on land. Floating turbines gracefully blend into the seascape, minimizing visual impact on coastal communities and preserving scenic beauty.
  • Minimal land use: No need to compete with precious land resources for agriculture, forests, or urban development. Floating turbines keep their footprint at sea, allowing harmonious coexistence with terrestrial ecosystems.
  • Lower noise pollution: Compared to their land-based counterparts, floating turbines generate less noise pollution, creating a more peaceful environment for coastal communities and marine life.

Technological Triumphs:

  • Scalability and cost reduction: As technology matures and projects like St Brieuc demonstrate, floating wind farms can be scaled up to meet large-scale energy needs. This paves the way for cost reduction through economies of scale, making clean energy even more accessible.
  • Co-location potential: Existing offshore infrastructure like oil and gas platforms can be co-located with floating wind turbines, optimizing resource utilization and minimizing environmental impact.
  • Innovation playground: The offshore environment presents a unique set of challenges, spurring innovation in turbine design, mooring systems, and grid integration solutions, benefiting the entire wind energy industry.

Economic Powerhouse:

  • Job creation: From construction and maintenance to research and development, floating wind farms create new jobs in diverse sectors, boosting local economies and fostering skilled workforces.
  • Energy security and independence: Reliance on imported fossil fuels diminishes as countries harness the abundant wind resources in their own waters, leading to greater energy security and independence.
  • Decarbonization and sustainability: At the heart of it all, floating wind turbines are champions of the fight against climate change. By providing clean, renewable energy, they contribute significantly to decarbonization goals and a sustainable future.

These are just some of the numerous benefits that make floating wind turbines a beacon of hope in the transition to a clean energy future. As technology advances and projects continue to flourish, these gentle giants of the sea will undoubtedly play a crucial role in powering our world with the boundless energy of the wind, while preserving the delicate balance of our planet.

https://www.exaputra.com/2024/01/new-technology-of-wind-energy-floating.html

Renewable Energy

ACORE Statement on Treasury’s Safe Harbor Guidance

Published

on

ACORE Statement on Treasury’s Safe Harbor Guidance

Statement from American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) President and CEO Ray Long on Treasury’s Safe Harbor Guidance:

“The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is deeply concerned that today’s Treasury guidance on the long-standing ‘beginning of construction’ safe harbor significantly undermines its proven effectiveness, is inconsistent with the law, and creates unnecessary uncertainty for renewable energy development in the United States.

“For over a decade, the safe harbor provisions have served as clear, accountable rules of the road – helping to reduce compliance burdens, foster private investment, and ensure taxpayer protections. These guardrails have been integral to delivering affordable, reliable American clean energy while maintaining transparency and adherence to the rule of law. This was recognized in the One Big Beautiful Act, which codified the safe harbor rules, now changed by this action. 

“We need to build more power generation now, and that includes renewable energy. The U.S. will need roughly 118 gigawatts (the equivalent of 12 New York Cities) of new power generation in the next four years to prevent price spikes and potential shortages. Only a limited set of technologies – solar, wind, batteries, and some natural gas – can be built at that scale in that timeframe.”

###

ABOUT ACORE

For over 20 years, the American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) has been the nation’s leading voice on the issues most essential to clean energy expansion. ACORE unites finance, policy, and technology to accelerate the transition to a clean energy economy. For more information, please visit http://www.acore.org.

Media Contacts:
Stephanie Genco
Senior Vice President, Communications
American Council on Renewable Energy
genco@acore.org

The post ACORE Statement on Treasury’s Safe Harbor Guidance appeared first on ACORE.

https://acore.org/news/acore-statement-on-treasurys-safe-harbor-guidance/

Continue Reading

Renewable Energy

Should I Get a Solar Battery Storage System?

Published

on

Frequent power outages, unreliable grid connection, sky-high electricity bills, and to top it off, your solar panels are exporting excess energy back to the grid, for a very low feed-in-tariff. 

Do all these scenarios sound familiar? Your answer might be yes! 

These challenges have become increasingly common across Australia, encouraging more and more homeowners to consider solar battery storage systems. 

Why? Because they want to take control of their energy, store surplus solar power, and reduce reliance on the grid.  

But then again, people often get perplexed, and their biggest question remains: Should I get a Solar Battery Storage System in Australia? 

Well, the answer can be yes in many cases, such as a battery can offer energy independence, ensure better bill savings, and provide peace of mind during unexpected power outages, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.  

There are circumstances where a battery may not be necessary or even cost-effective. 

In this guide, we’ll break down when it makes sense and all the pros and cons you need to know before making the investment.

Why You Need Battery Storage Now?

According to data, Australia has surpassed 3.9 million rooftop solar installations, generating more than 37 GW of PV capacity, which is about 20% of electricity in the National Electricity Market in 2024 and early 2025.  

Undoubtedly, the country’s strong renewable energy targets, sustainability goals, and the clean‑energy revolution have brought solar power affordability, but the next step in self‑reliance is battery storage. 

Data from The Guardian says that 1 in 5 new solar installs in 2025 now includes a home battery, versus 1 in 20 just a few years ago, representing a significant leap in adoption.  

Moreover, the recent launch of the Cheaper Home Batteries program has driven this uptake even further, with over 11,500 battery units installed in just the first three weeks from July 1, and around 1,000 installations per day. 

Overall, the Australian energy market is evolving rapidly. Average household battery size has climbed to about 17 kWh from 10–12 kWh previously.  

Hence, the experts are assuming that 10 GW of new battery capacity will be added over the next five years, competing with Australia’s current coal‑fired capacity.

What Am I Missing Out on Without Solar Batteries?

Honestly? You’re missing out on the best part of going solar. 

Renewable sources of energy like solar, hydro, and wind make us feel empowered. For example, solar batteries lower your electricity bills, minimize grid dependency, and also help to reduce your carbon footprint 

But here’s the catch! Without battery storage, you’re only halfway there! 

The true magic of solar power isn’t just in producing clean energy; it’s storing and using it efficiently.  

A solar battery lets you store excess energy and use it when the sun goes down or the grid goes out. It’s the key to real energy independence. Therefore, ultimately, getting a battery is what makes your solar system truly yours.

Why You Need Battery Storage Now

Here’s a list of what you’re missing out on without a solar battery: 

  1. Energy Independence 
  2. Batteries help you to stay powered even during blackouts or grid failures. With energy storage, you don’t have to think of fuel price volatility and supply-demand disruption in the  Australian energy market. 

  3. Maximized Savings  
  4. Adding a solar battery to your solar PV system allows you to use your own stored energy at night instead of repurchasing it at high rates. It also reduces grid pressure during peak hours, restoring grid stability. 

  5. Better Return on Investment ROI 
  6. Tired of Australian low feed-in-tariff rates 

    Make full use of your solar system by storing excess power at a low price rather than exporting it. Solar panel and battery systems can be a powerful duo for Australian households.  

  7. Lower Carbon Footprint 
  8. Despite the steady growth in solar, wind, and hydro, fossil fuels still dominate the grid. Fossil fuels supplied approximately 64% of Australia’s total electricity generation, while coal alone accounted for around 45%. 

    These stats highlight why solar battery storage is so valuable. By storing surplus solar energy, homeowners can reduce their reliance on a grid that still runs on coal and gas.  

  9. Peace of Mind 
  10. Enjoy 24/7 uninterrupted power, no matter what’s happening outside.  

    Besides powering urban homes and businesses, batteries also provide reliable power backup for off-grid living at night when your solar panel can’t produce, ensuring peace of mind. 

What Size Solar Battery Do I Need?

While choosing the battery size, it isn’t just about picking the biggest one you can afford; it’s about matching your household’s energy consumption pattern. There is no one-size battery that will make financial or functional sense for everyone. 

Nevertheless, if you have an average family of four with no exceptional power demands, you may get by with a 10kWh to 12kWh battery bank as a ready-to-roll backup system.  

Well, this is just an estimation, as we have no idea of your power needs, because selecting a battery is highly subjective to the household in question. 

With that being said, you can get a good idea of how much power you use on average by analyzing your electric bill copy. Also, keeping track of which appliances you use the most and which ones require the most power will help you.  

So, to figure out the ideal battery size for your home, you need to consider three most important things: 

  1. Your Daily Energy Usage

Check your electricity bill for your average daily consumption (in kWh). Most Australian homes use between 15 to 25 kWh per day. 

  1. Your Solar System Output

How much excess solar energy are you generating during the day? That’s the power you’ll store to use later rather than exporting. 

  1. Your Nighttime Power Usage

A battery is most useful at night or during grid outages. So, estimate how much power you typically use after sunset. However, by using a battery, you can also get the freedom of living off the grid. 

Sizing Up: The Ideal Home Battery for Aussies! 

  • For small households and light usage, a 5 kWh battery will be suitable. 
  • For average Australian households, adding a 10 kWh battery would be enough. 
  • Large homes and high-energy users will need a 13 to 15 kWh system. 
  • For full independence, off-grid living, or blackout protection, you may require a larger battery size of 20+ kWh. 

Want help calculating your exact needs? Just drop your daily usage and solar output, and we’ll do the math for you! Cyanergy is here to help!  

Sizing Up: The Ideal Home Battery for Aussies! 

  • For small households and light usage, a 5 kWh battery will be suitable. 
  • For average Australian households, adding a 10 kWh battery would be enough. 
  • Large homes and high-energy users will need a 13 to 15 kWh system. 
  • For full independence, off-grid living, or blackout protection, you may require a larger battery size of 20+ kWh. 

Want help calculating your exact needs? Just drop your daily usage and solar output, and we’ll do the math for you! Cyanergy is here to help! 

How Much Do Solar Batteries Cost?

How Much Do Solar Batteries Cost

Previously, you would have to pay between $3000 and $3600 for the battery alone, plus the cost of installation, for every kWh of solar battery storage.  

However, you can currently expect to pay between $1200 and $1400 for each kWh of solar battery storage. That is a price reduction of approximately 52%, and things will only get better from here. 

Does that imply solar batteries are cheap now? Not really, but the cost is well justified by the pros of having a battery storage system. 

Also, while paying for solar batteries, you have to consider many other factors like the type of battery, your solar panel system configurations and compatibility, brand, and installation partner.  

These will significantly influence the price range of battery storage. 

Is a Solar Battery Worth It | Pros and Cons at a Glance

It’s okay to feel a little overwhelmed while deciding to invest your hard-earned money in a battery.  

So, here we’ve listed the pros and cons of having a solar battery to help you in the decision-making process. 

Benefits of Solar Battery Storage 

  • Solar batteries help you become self-sustaining. 
  • You don’t have to care about power outages anymore 
  • In the event of any natural disaster, you will still have a power source 
  • Battery prices are dropping significantly as we speak 
  • During peak hours, grid electricity prices increase due to high demand; you can avoid paying a high price and use your battery. It’s essentially free energy, as solar generates energy from the sun. 
  • Reduced carbon footprint as the battery stores energy from a renewable source. 

Advantages of battery for the grid and national energy system: 

  • Batteries support Virtual Power Plants (VPPs). In 2025, consumers get financial bonuses (AUD 250‑400) for joining, plus grid benefits via distributed dispatchable power.  
  • Grid‑scale batteries like Victoria Big Battery or Hornsdale Power Reserve are increasing system resilience by storing large amounts of renewable energy and reducing blackout risk. 

Drawbacks of Solar Battery Storage 

  • One of the biggest barriers is that solar batteries have a high upfront cost, which makes installation harder for residents. 
  • Home batteries require physical space, proper ventilation, and can’t always be placed just anywhere, especially in smaller homes or apartments. 
  • Most batteries, like lithium-ion batteries, last 5 to 15 years, meaning they may need replacement during your solar system’s lifetime. 
  • While many systems are low-maintenance, some may require software updates, monitoring, or even professional servicing over time. 
  • Battery production involves mining and processing materials like lithium or lead, which raise environmental and ethical concerns.   

Should You Buy a Solar Battery?: Here’s the Final Call!

You should consider buying a solar battery if several key factors align with your situation.  

First, it’s a strong financial move if you live in a state where federal and state incentives can significantly reduce the upfront cost. This can make the investment far more affordable.  

A solar battery can be especially worthwhile if you value having backup power during outages, lowering your electricity bills, and gaining a measure of energy independence from the grid.  

Additionally, you should be comfortable with taking a few extra steps to get the most value out of your system, such as joining a virtual power plant (VPP), which allows your battery to participate in grid services in exchange for modest returns.  

Finally, it’s worth noting that rebates decline annually, and early adopters get the most value.  

Takeaway Thoughts

Installing a solar battery in Australia in mid‑2025 offers substantial financial, environmental, and energy‑security benefits, especially if you qualify for multiple subsidies and have good solar capacity.  

With rebates shrinking after 2025 and demand surging, early movers stand to benefit most. 

By helping balance the grid and reduce dependence on fossil fuels, home battery adoption contributes significantly to Australia’s national goals of 82% renewable energy by 2030 

It’s not just about savings; it’s about being part of a smarter, cleaner, more resilient electricity future for Australia. 

Looking for CEC-accredited local installers?  

Contact us today for any of your solar needs. We’d be happy to assist!  

Your Solution Is Just a Click Away

The post Should I Get a Solar Battery Storage System? appeared first on Cyanergy.

Should I Get a Solar Battery Storage System?

Continue Reading

Renewable Energy

Wine Grapes and Climate Change

Published

on

I just spoke with a guy in the wine industry, and I asked him how, if at all, climate change is affecting what we does.

From his perspective, it’s the horrific wildfires whose smoke imbues (or “taints”) the grapes with an unpleasant flavor that needs to be modified, normally by creative methods of blending.

Wine Grapes and Climate Change

Continue Reading

Trending

Copyright © 2022 BreakingClimateChange.com