Global industrial equipment manufacturer, WEG has announced it will launch a new 7MW wind turbine, which will provide greater power and efficiency for wind generation projects. Measuring an impressive 172m rotor diameter, the turbine will be the largest in operation in Brazil — the market in which it was developed and will be initially launched.

The 7MW wind turbine will be a competitive option in the wind generation market and has been designed with reliability and ease of operation in mind, which maximises energy production and return on investment for customers.

Differing from the 4.2MW turbine which is currently manufactured by WEG — a model that stands out for its focus on specific wind and weather conditions in Brazil — the 7MW wind turbine has been designed with features adapted to also serve other markets too. The turbine will eventually be available globally.

The turbine’s medium-speed geared (MSG) drive technology, combined with a full power drive, allows for smooth interconnection to the electrical grid, as well as flexibility to adapt and comply with different grid codes in each country. It is also capable of providing reactive energy even when there is no wind.

The new design includes modular components such as a taller tower in order to simplify logistics operations and provide an easier assembly concept, particularly for uneven geographic areas.

João Paulo Gualberto da Silva, managing director of the WEG Energy Business Unit, said: “We have already been successful with our 2.1MW platform with over 650MW of operational capacity, exceeding availability commitments, as well as with the current 4.2MW platform, where we have already sold more than 1000MW. To continue growing our wind power generation business we naturally keep expanding and offering our customers even more efficient and high-tech solutions.”

He added: “With wind turbine qualified engineering teams from Brazil, USA and Germany, in addition to the expertise of producing many of the components internally, such as generators, electric motors, electronic components and paints, we will achieve important cost and quality advantages.”

The manufacture of the new wind turbines will initially take place at WEG’s manufacturing site in Jaraguá do Sul, Brazil, where the company already produces wind turbines. The prototype of the new 7MW wind turbine should start operating in early 2024 and regular production is expected in 2025.