The wind turbine demonstrator powering green growth

The world’s largest and most advanced open-access offshore wind turbine is leading the development of new technologies in offshore renewables – driving cost reduction and high-value job creation across the UK.

As well as playing a significant role in helping the UK reach net zero targets, large offshore wind farms are also a catalyst for green economic growth. However, the nature of their inaccessible locations can make the development of new technology time-consuming and expensive.

Situated just metres off the coast of Fife and connected to the shore by a short bridge, the 7MW Levenmouth Demonstration Turbine (LDT) allows developers to test and demonstrate new systems and methods without the time and costs of working offshore.

“The UK is taking a leading role in wind turbine design and operation, but there is still potential for these farms to operate more efficiently and reliably. By integrating automated systems and robotics into its operations, for example, the offshore wind sector has the potential to cut inspection cost by up to 40%,” says Lorna Bennet, Project Engineer. “LDT is the test-bed for both SMEs and academic researchers working in this area, hosting demonstrations of crawling, climbing, aerial and sub-sea robots.”

With more than 120 instruments in the turbine’s foundation, blades, nacelle and tower, LDT facilitates technology validation in areas such as data, digitalisation, robotics and automation. It also provides an accessible facility for conducting technician training and testing innovative crew transfer systems.

More than 120 SMEs have accessed the facility for technology development, testing or demonstration, and 45 collaborative research and development projects have been completed or are under contract at the site, too. “LDT provides an invaluable and unique facility for businesses to innovate, prove new technologies and find vital routes to market,” says Lorna. “It’s helping boost bankability and investor confidence in innovative solutions – and driving green growth in the UK.”

Image: The Levenmouth Demonstration Turbine is the world’s most advanced, open-access offshore wind turbine dedicated to R&D. It is operated by the Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult. Credit: ORE Catapult

Link to full brochure