VIDEO: world's longest wind turbine blade has arrived at ORE Catapult

Get a ringside view as the world's longest wind turbine blade arrives at ORE Catapult for testing.

The 107m LM Wind Power blade was manufactured in Cherbourg for GE Renewable Energy's 12MW Haliade-X turbine. It will undergo a full range of advanced testing procedures, demonstrating its ability to withstand peak wind conditions and simulating its readiness for years of operation at sea.

Haliade-X 12 MW will contribute to making offshore wind more affordable and help developers drive the global growth of offshore wind, generating substantial economic and environmental benefits.
The production of the LM 107.0 P blade represents a milestone for the entire wind industry, as the first wind turbine blade to surpass 100 meters in length.

Hanif Mashal, LM Wind Power Vice President of Engineering, said:

“LM Wind Power has broken the size record once again with this 107-meter blade. We are proud to begin its global validation program in the UK, where we have a long-term strategic partnership with ORE Catapult to test new products, including our previous record-breaking blade at 88.4 meters in length. Through LM Wind Power’s advanced technology development hub in Southampton, we look to continue our presence and cooperation with UK-based technology and R&D entities.”

Andrew Jamieson, Chief Executive of the Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Catapult, said:

“We’re delighted to have taken delivery of the world’s longest blade at our Blyth test facility, where we’ll put it through an extremely rigorous testing programme designed to make sure it can withstand years of operation at sea. This 107m blade, which is larger than the total wingspan of an A380 aircraft, represents a huge milestone for our industry and will be part of the innovative Haliade-X 12 MW next-generation offshore wind turbine. Testing these world-leading technologies here in the UK cements our position as a global leader in offshore wind and presents unparalleled opportunities for the UK supply chain to develop new products and services, creating jobs and generating economic benefit.”