Enercon has received the type certificate for its E-138 EP3 E3 turbine, from TUV Nord.
As the appointed certifier, TUV Nord officially handed over the documents today for the 4.26MW machine at WindEnergy Hamburg (pictured).
As part of the measurement and validation campaign, the loads, power curve and sound power levels were successfully measured at the prototype site in Staphorst, Netherlands.
On completion of the measurement programme, the prototype was handed over to the customer.
Deliveries in Europe will start at the beginning of 2026.
The E-138 EP3 E3 has a rotor diameter of 138 metres, a rated output of 4.26MW and is available with different tower variants with hub heights of 81-160 metres.
With a wind class IIA rating, it is currently suitable for weak to medium wind locations.
Like all current Enercon turbine types, the E-138 EP3 E3 is based on the E-nacelle concept.
“We are delighted to have received the type certificate,” said EP3 product manager Sascha Exner.
“This is an important milestone in our product roadmap, which will soon be followed by further important steps.
“The E-138 EP3 E4, with which we will standardise the nacelles of the EP3 and EP5 platform, is already in development.”
This EP3 turbine type will then be fitted with the self-supporting nacelle covering that has already been introduced on the EP5 platform.
Based on the successful prototype measurement and further developments, Enercon will also offer an improved power curve for the E4, which will enable around 1.5% more annual energy yield (AEP).
In addition, a more robust version for typhoon requirements in Asian markets is under development, and there will be new steel towers for Europe with 111 metres and for Japan with 99 metres.