Wind turbine height records set in Germany

Wind energy technology is reaching new heights in Germany through two significant developments in turbine height and efficiency.

Vestas has set a world record for the tallest hub height for an onshore wind turbine with the installation of an EnVentus V172-7.2 MW turbine in Winnberg. The project utilizes a concrete hybrid tower from Firmengruppe Max Bögl. Vestas stated that this innovation allows for increased energy production by accessing stronger, more consistent wind resources at higher altitudes. The company plans to install 40 of these turbines at the Palmer Wind Farm in South Australia.

In Schipkau, developer Gicon is advancing a massive turbine project in the Brandenburg region. The structure, which includes blades, is expected to reach a total height of 365 metres. Due to the extreme height, the assembly involves a complex hydraulic lifting system to move the 750-tonne structure upward, as traditional cranes cannot reach the destination. Gicon estimates that these high-altitude turbines can increase wind energy yield by 40 percent compared to standard models, potentially making low-wind regions economically viable for wind power.