Revolutionizing the future of sustainable energy, the innovative Swedish startup Modvion has elevated green technology to new heights by constructing the tallest wooden wind turbine tower across the globe. This remarkable achievement is contributing to Sweden’s commitment to renewable energy, powering hundreds of homes with clean power.
Powering Swedish Homes with Sustainable Innovation
Commencing operation near the bustling city of Gothenburg, the wooden structure currently stands in a picturesque location outside Skara. Courtesy of the Skara-based electric utility Varberg Energi, this 2-MW wooden wind turbine has successfully initiated its mission to feed green electricity to Sweden’s power grid.
A Towering Achievement in Renewable Engineering
Towering at an impressive height of 344 feet, or 105 meters, the wind turbine’s majestic silhouette reaches even higher when considering the blade’s tip—it extends up to 492 feet, equivalent to 150 meters. The tower’s meticulously engineered 144 layers form a stronghold of laminated veneer lumber, each layer being comprised of a 3-millimeter slice of sustainably-sourced spruce. These modules, assembled in seven primary sections connected by steel fittings, result in a structure that’s both robust and innovative.
Combining Strength with Sustainability
In an era where eco-friendly alternatives are essential, this wooden tower by Modvion offers a significant advantage over traditional steel counterparts. Its lightweight nature permits smoother transportation across standard road networks. More so, these wooden towers surpass environmental expectations, offering carbon-negative benefits by sequestering carbon dioxide for the duration of their lifespan. An added ecological benefit surfaces after decommissioning: the wooden tower walls are repurposable as sturdy construction materials.
The Partnership of Giants: Vestas and Modvion
A global leader in the wind sector, Danish titan Vestas is the mastermind behind the 2 MW turbine perched atop Modvion’s wooden tower. In a show of confidence and partnership, Vestas became a shareholder of Modvion back in 2021. The current project marks the first instance where the turbine technology from Vestas and Modvion’s wooden tower design have been combined, heralding a new chapter for wind energy infrastructure.
Looking to a Future of Forest-Fueled Power
Eager to establish a stronghold in the market of sustainable energy production, Modvion anticipates a significant leap forward in the coming years. Revealed in discussions with the BBC, the company’s vision includes opening a production facility slated for 2027, with the impressive goal of manufacturing 100 wooden wind turbines each year, echoing the potential of wood as a renewable resource in the energy sector.
