So Long, Old Wind Turbines! Europe's Largest Repowering Project in Wittenburg Almost Complete
In a nutshell:
Wind turbine transformation project nearing finish line - Wind turbine transformation project nearing accomplishment
Get ready to wave goodbye to 50 old wind turbines, as 16 brand-spanking new ones are about to take center stage in the District of Wittenberg. The Zahna-Elster wind farm will become one of Europe's biggest repowering projects, with an expected generating capacity of 105 megawatts and an annual output of around 235 gigawatt-hours - enough energy for over 67,000 households!
The Lowdown:
Thomas Winkler, CEO of project developer VSB energy company, shared some exciting details with the German Press Agency. The new turbines will be twice as tall and three times as broad as the old ones, standing at over 165 meters high and boasting a 155-meter rotor diameter. Surprisingly, they'll cover only two-thirds of the original land area, whilst delivering more energy to your home!
Putting Your Household in the Wind:
The wind farm's increased efficiency means it can power the equivalent of 67,000 three-person households. Local municipalities will also reap benefits, receiving approximately 520,000 euros per year from the project. If you want to get in on the action, take part in the new crowdfunding model paying 5% interest, similar to a savings account!
Species Protection and Technology:
This project sets new environmental standards, with wind turbines automatically switching off during harvest to protect birds. The new, taller turbines are also safer for various bird species, as their rotor blades spin at greater heights.
Going Green the Right Way:
During the decommissioning of old plants, sustainability was key – reusing or recycling as much as possible. Some old plants were even sent to Poland, Lithuania, and Australia for further use.
A Green Future:
Two more wind turbines have already been approved and should be up and running by the end of 2025. The grand opening of the new wind park is scheduled for August 15th.
Fun Facts:
- The wind farm's new name under the sun: ZahnaElster Wind Farm
- The repowering project may pave the way for more eco-friendly projects in the future
Further Reading:
- zahnaelster-weitere-rossleben-goehren
- turbinen-hoher-leistung
- windkraft-in-sachsen-anhalt-eine-kreative-lösung
Community policy for the wind farm in Wittenburg includes vocational training opportunities for local residents, aiming to prepare them for careers in the renewable energy industry. This finite project is expected to significantly boost the local economy through annual income from finance and technology aspects, benefiting the community beyond its conclusion.
As part of the green future initiative, the wind farm's increase in efficiency through technology advancements in wind turbines contributes to the finance sector, while adhering to strict energy conservation policies and species protection standards.
