What will likely be the longest-ever wind turbine blades have been commissioned by the United Kingdom.
Wind turbine developer Blade Dynamics has been approved by the UK Energy Technologies Institute to develop and create wind turbine blades at lengths between 260 and 330 feet long, reports RenewEconomy.com, far longer than normal blades which can span from 190 to 240 feet.
The new blades are hoped to be the next generation of turbines, which could generate eight to 10 megawatts, compared to current blades which can only generate 5 to 6 megawatts.
The blades may weigh as much as 40 percent less than current blades, as their buildup will use carbon fiber instead of fiberglass. A new creation process for the blades would have them assembled in smaller components, easier to manufacture than current blades which are often made in large molds.
Additionally, new turbine technology from General Electric can share data with other turbines and wind farms to help predict and follow wind forecasts, which can be used to increase efficiency and react to any changes in wind speed or weather, according to The Inquisitir.
With proper physical testing of their components, wind turbines can be made even more efficient, extending their life spans and reducing their costs of maintenance.