In a groundbreaking development for renewable energy, Chinese equipment manufacturer Sany has unveiled the world’s largest onshore wind turbine, achieving a rated power of 15 MW. promises to redefine the capabilities of onshore wind energy.
Onshore installations, particularly in regions with vast, uninhabited landscapes, have traditionally relied on smaller turbines, typically around 8 MW. Officially operational as of November 16, Sany’s SI-270150 innovative turbine, installed in Tongyu, Jilin Province changes this narrative, nearly doubling the power output potential for onshore wind farms.
According to Sany’s announcement, the SI-270150 boasts a remarkable rotor diameter of 885 feet (270 meters) and blades extending 430 feet (131 meters). Each rotation covers an area of over 616,000 square feet (57,256 square meters)—equivalent to a football field. With an annual energy generation capacity of 56 million kWh, a single turbine can power approximately 160,000 households, revolutionizing energy access on the mainland.
Sany’s engineers have equipped the SI-270150 with cutting-edge features to ensure optimal performance and reliability. Its lightweight construction reduces load stress and enables easier transportation of its massive blades over long distances. At its core, a dual tapered roller bearing (TRB) main support shaft enhances load-bearing capacity and operational stability, allowing the turbine to withstand varied environmental conditions.
This flagship model is designed for medium to high wind speeds, maximizing energy generation efficiency. “The SI-270150 is not just a turbine; it’s a testament to the future of onshore energy technology,” the company emphasized in its social media post.
The journey of the SI-270150 has only begun. Following its successful commissioning, the turbine will undergo a rigorous testing regime over the next year. Nearly 2,000 performance evaluations will ensure the reliability of its components and overall design under real-world conditions.
Simultaneously, another prototype is undergoing accelerated aging tests on Sany’s groundbreaking 35 MW Six Degrees of Freedom and Drivetrain Back-to-Back Test Bench—the largest facility of its kind. Over 18 months, the turbine will be validated for a 30-year operational lifespan, pushing the boundaries of engineering and innovation.
Sany’s achievement signals China’s rise as a leader in renewable energy innovation, going beyond its reputation as a manufacturing powerhouse. By developing technology that meets the growing demands of a sustainable future, the country is shaping a world aligned with ambitious carbon reduction goals.
“This turbine not only represents a feat of engineering but also embodies the potential of a world striving for cleaner energy,” Sany’s statement concluded.