In a landmark innovation, Siemens has partnered with StatoilHydro to install the world’s first floating wind turbine, a Siemens SWT-2.3-82 with a rotor diameter of 82 metres and a 65 metre hub height.

Located approximately 12 kilometres southeast of Karmoy in Norway, the ‘Hywind’ turbine is suitable for water depths of between 120 and 700 metres and anchored to the seabed by wire, whereas other offshore wind turbines are firmly founded within the seabed.

“The Hywind turbine opens up a new world of opportunities for off-shore wind power, as the turbines could be placed much more freely than before” said Albert Goller, Siemens Chairman and Managing Director.

“Because the turbine is constructed on a floating structure, the high costs associated with foundation works for fixed turbines at depths of more than 30 to 50 metres are eliminated, making this innovation the clear choice for countries that have been looking to establish large scale offshore wind farms.”

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Over the next two years, the Hywind turbine will be monitored by Siemens to further develop and improve the technology. The turbine will be connected to the local grid and is expected to provide power in mid-July 2010.

“Siemens constructed the world’s first offshore wind farm 18 years ago, so it is no surprise that we are once again leading the way in innovating the latest technologies to meet the world’s energy challenges,” said Mr Goller.

Siemens’ wind technology currently provides clean energy for some 28,000 homes in Wellington, New Zealand, with 27 Siemens turbines now connected to the grid at Meridian Energy’s West Wind farm.

“When all 62 Siemens turbines are connected, West Wind will have a capacity of 142 megawatts (MW) and power the equivalent of 70,000 homes in New Zealand – the equivalent of all homes within the boundaries of Wellington City and double the power provided by the average wind farm,” Mr Goller said.

Siemens has more than 6,600 MW of offshore wind installed around the world, as well as steam turbines and solar thermal power plants. The company also offers solar receivers.

In Australia, the company is trialling combined cycle gasification technology. It is also currently undertaking research into the future of energy and water in 2020 and beyond, supported by leading Australian research and development experts.

The Siemens Future Outlook, led by Albert Goller, will be revealed by the end of 2009. Siemens commenced operations in Australia in 1872 and in New Zealand in 1876.