Wind power enters new era of bigger, smarter turbines

Engineers are developing larger, more efficient and more versatile wind turbines as the renewable energy industry looks to increase electricity production and expand into new locations.

Global wind capacity additions are expected to reach 160 gigawatts in 2026, according to Wood Mackenzie, down 6% from the record 170 GW added in 2025, OILPRICE writes.

The consultancy attributed part of the decline to China completing a five-year development cycle, 

Modern turbines have become significantly larger over the past decade. Newer models use lightweight, aerodynamic blades capable of capturing more energy, including at lower wind speeds. Some turbines have rotor diameters of around 220 metres, while towers can exceed 150 metres.

Advanced sensors and actuators can also adjust blade angles in real time, helping turbines maximise electricity production. Some modern offshore turbines now exceed 15 MW of capacity, reducing the number of machines required to generate large amounts of power.

Offshore wind is another area undergoing rapid development. A significant share of the world's offshore wind potential is located in waters deeper than 60 metres, where conventional fixed-bottom turbines are difficult to install economically. Floating turbines could open up these areas, although high installation and maintenance costs remain challenges.

An EU-funded project is developing a 15 MW turbine generator designed to be lighter, cheaper and easier to repair, potentially helping accelerate floating offshore wind.

Engineers are also exploring designs that move beyond conventional turbines. In China, researchers have tested an airborne wind energy system operating about 2,000 metres above the ground. The system uses an airship platform carrying wind turbines and has demonstrated the ability to generate electricity and send it to the grid.

Bladeless technology is another experimental approach. Spanish startup Vortex Bladeless has developed a vertical cylinder that oscillates in the wind and converts the resulting vibrations into electricity. The company says the technology could be useful in urban and residential areas where conventional wind turbines are less suitable.

While traditional turbines remain at the centre of the wind industry, floating, airborne and bladeless systems could eventually allow wind power to reach areas that conventional designs cannot easily serve.

By Aghakazim Guliyev