German wind turbine manufacturer Nordex has commenced the installation of turbines at the Karahka wind power project in Finland, a venture commissioned by a consortium led by energy supplier Helen and Alandsbanken Wind Power Fund. The order, placed in 2022, includes 25 N163/5.X wind turbines boasting a combined capacity of 147.5 megawatts.
Notably, the Karahka wind farm will be the pioneer site for Nordex's in-house developed hybrid concrete and steel tower, standing at an impressive hub height of 168 meters. Drawing on Nordex's extensive experience in concrete tower design and production gleaned from projects in Brazil, South Africa, and Mexico, this innovative tower design marks a significant step forward in wind energy infrastructure.
Lujabetoni, a local manufacturer, has been producing the concrete elements for the wind turbine towers since the summer of 2023, supporting the regional economy and contributing to the project's sustainability goals.
The hybrid tower structure comprises convex concrete segments, each up to 20 meters in length, assembled and braced on-site before the installation of steel sections, nacelle, and rotor. Nordex's proven hybrid tower technology not only facilitates the current project but also opens the door to achieving even greater hub heights in subsequent years, thereby boosting clean wind energy production.
Looking ahead, Nordex plans to install the first 179-meter hybrid tower in Germany in 2024, utilizing the same technology that is being implemented at the Karahka wind farm. The project was developed by the Finnish subsidiary of the German VSB Group, headquartered in Dresden.
Situated north of Oulainen, approximately 40 kilometers east of the Gulf of Bothnia, the Karahka wind farm faces challenging winter weather conditions. To address these challenges, Nordex is supplying its wind turbines in the cold climate version and incorporating anti-icing technology for rotor blades, ensuring reliable and efficient operation in adverse weather conditions.
As the wind energy sector continues to evolve, Nordex's commitment to innovative tower designs and technology underscores its dedication to advancing sustainable and efficient solutions for clean energy production.
