Wind Turbines Get New Platforms

New technologies are being developed to affix wind turbines -- both by land and by sea. Northstar Wind Towers is developing a modular wind tower that can be build to order in height and diameter. The new design is easier to transport and can support taller turbines, according to <a href="http://www.northstarwindtowers.com/>the company</a>.

The first of the new towers for startup Northstar Wind Towers will be ready by the end of the year. Transportation costs can be 75 percent lower because no special trailers or permits are needed.

A new platform for supporting floating wind turbines is being developed by Borgen. The floating platforms would be tethered to the ocean floor rather than using a tower so that the can be used in deeper water, according to <a href="http://www.forbes.com/business/energy/forbes/2008/0225/062.html">Forbes</a>.

Wind energy is becoming cost competitive with coal and natural gas in many locations, prompting the desire to put bigger turbines in more difficult to reach locations.