Single-blade offshore wind turbine design could dramatically cut costs

Dutch company Touchwind has developed an innovative single-blade floating offshore wind turbine design. The design features a massive single-piece rotor, anchored to the seabed with a buoyant barrel float. This single blade is expected to cost around 30% as much as traditional triple-bladed arrangements, without the need for expensive active blade-pitch control systems. It's rated for high wind speeds and is designed for easy manufacturing and deployment from harbour facilities. While no commercial deployment plans have been announced, it's a novel approach that could offer cost savings and efficiency improvements in floating offshore wind. (New Atlas)