14 DAY TRIAL // This past Thursday, a new wind energy research and testing facility opened in the United States. The facility is said to be the largest of its kind for the country, and one of the most advanced in the world.
It is located in North Charleston, South Carolina at the site of a former Navy warehouse and its construction cost around $107 million (€79.59 million). $47 million (€34.96 million) were provided by the country's Department of Energy, whereas the remainder $60 million (€44.63) came from outside funding.
The US Department of Energy explains that the facility, run by the Clemson University, will be used to test new types of wind turbines, especially offshore ones.
Information obtained in this manner is expected to help boost the country's performance in terms of harvesting wind power. Figuring out ways to reduce the costs associated with this green industry is also on the agenda.
The facility has two testing bays, and also features a grid simulator that will be used to recreate real-world conditions and help researchers get a better idea of how one wind turbine or another will operate when installed on land or offshore.
According to the Department of Energy, the facility will make it possible for researchers to simulate about 20 years' worth of wear and tear for machinery and equipment that convert onshore and offshore wind into electricity in only a few months.
Commenting on the significance of this project, Deputy Secretary Daniel Poneman stated as follows: “Developing America’s vast renewable energy resources is an important part of the Energy Department’s all-of-the-above strategy to pave the way to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.”
Furthermore, “The Clemson testing facility represents a critical investment to ensure America leads in this fast-growing global industry – helping to make sure the best, most efficient wind energy technologies are developed and manufactured in the United States.”
Wind turbines designed and manufactured not just by national green energy companies, but also by foreign ones, are expected to be tested at this facility.