Suzlon opens research center for wind energy technology in Denmark

Suzlon Group has opened a blade science center in Vejle, Denmark, to accelerate its vision to become a leader in technology in the wind industry. The new center will be focused on developing the best blades and control systems in the industry, and integrating Suzlon’s aerodynamic, loads and new structures research across the company.
 
Dr Thomas Buhl has joined Suzlon as vice president to lead Suzlon’s blade science center. From the Technical University of Denmark (DTU) Wind Energy, Dr Buhl has more than 15 years of experience in aerodynamics and blade structures, and has demonstrated strong leadership throughout his career. At his last assignment, Dr. Buhl was heading the Section for Wind Turbine Structures at DTU Wind Energy where he managed a large group of scientists and engineers with a focus on mechanical design and loads, composite structures and structural optimisation.
 
Tulsi Tanti, chairman, Suzlon Group, said, “The new blade center is aligned to our vision of being the technology leader in the global wind sector. We believe a new wave of innovation is required to unlock the true potential of renewable energy, to lower levelised cost of energy (LCoE), and take the game to a new level. Technology will be the key enabler to achieve this. Denmark is the birthplace of wind technology and we will leverage the experience and expertise of the talent pool there in our innovation efforts as we develop our next generation of turbines.”
 
Duncan Koerbel, chief technology officer, Suzlon, added, “We have an aggressive series of new turbines for low wind sites planned for the Indian and international markets. Through technology, we will advance the performance of these machines with our fourth generation blades, augmented with improved pitch control systems, and by introducing carbon fibre in a unique industry application.”