Floating wind turbine in Maine proves resilient in storm simulation [Video]

• The University of Maine is contributing to the global effort to improve floating machines to harness wind over deeper offshore waters.
• Researchers envision turbine platforms floating in the ocean beyond the horizon, stretching more than 700 feet.
• Floating turbines are the only viable option for U.S. states to capture large-scale offshore wind energy in waters too deep for traditional turbines.

As waves grew and gusts increased, a wind turbine bobbed gently, its blades spinning with a gentle woosh. The tempest reached a crescendo with little drama other than splashing water.

The uneventful outcome is exactly what engineers aimed for.

The demonstration featuring a 13-foot-tall floating wind turbine in an indoor pool aimed to ensure it can withstand the strain of powerful water and wind when much larger versions are deployed in the ocean.

US’S FIRST LARGE OFFSHORE WIND FARM OFFICIALLY OPENS IN NEW YORK, WITH MORE TO COME

It’s the University of Maine’scontribution to a worldwide race to improve floating machines to tap …