Enercon has installed the prototype of the new E-175 EP5 E2 (pictured) wind turbine with a rated output of 7MW, with the completion of assembly in Wachendorf/Lower Saxony, Germany.
With its turbine concept, Enercon said its top model is a game changer in the direct drive segment and also the prerequisite for future digital services and customer solutions.
The E-175 EP5 E2 is one of the largest, most powerful and highest-yielding onshore turbines on the European market.
The prototype was erected on a hybrid tower with a hub height of 162 metres.
While the rotor diameter remains unchanged at 175 metres, the nominal output and yield have increased significantly compared to the basic version already available with 6MW.
This is due to the new generator, which is designed as an external rotor in the E2, Enercon said.
To ensure that the component, which is considerably larger in diameter, can be transported efficiently, it has been designed to be separable.
The generator is delivered in two halves from the factory to the construction site and is only assembled on site during turbine installation.
Moritz Rodenhausen, head of product management at Enercon, said: “The E-175 EP5 is a ‘smart’ turbine that integrates numerous advanced technologies and functions for the first time in order to maximise efficiency and performance for our customers.”
For example, it has flexible operating modes that are optimised for maximum energy yield or reduced load. These variable operating parameters make it possible to customise the turbine to specific site conditions or customer requirements.
“Added to this are advanced digitalisation technologies that open up new possibilities for our service and maintenance offering in the future – for example, planned maintenance, live data and turbine monitoring”, Rodenhausen said.
“These advanced features make the E-175 EP5 E2 one of the leading wind turbines in its class and offer operators a wide range of benefits.”
The E-175 EP5 will also take centre stage at Enercon‘s trade fair appearance during Wind Europe 2025 in Copenhagen (8 to 10 April).