Wedoany.com Report-Oct. 12, German wind turbine manufacturer ENERCON has entered into a collaboration with Canadian clean technology firm Biome Renewables to advance wind turbine noise-reduction solutions. The two companies signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to jointly explore the application of Biome’s FeatherEdge serration technology, designed to minimize turbine noise and improve acoustic performance at sensitive sites.

The collaboration aims to reduce noise of wind turbines via leveraging FeatherEdge serration technology.

ENERCON Chief Technology Officer Jörg Scholle said: “Initial tests in close cooperation between Biome and our customer Schierloh Engineering in Germany indicate that further acoustical advantages for noise-sensitive sites could be possible with this technology. As partner to our customers for continuous improvements over the operating life time of ENERCON turbines, we are jointly exploring this opportunity with Biome with the aim to create added value for our customers’ assets.”

The partnership will conduct further testing and validation of the FeatherEdge technology on ENERCON’s E-160 EP5 turbines in Germany. Earlier independent tests this year produced promising results, encouraging both companies to proceed with broader assessments. The validation phase will include detailed acoustic testing under various operational modes, following International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standards, to ensure accuracy and reliability.

FeatherEdge, developed by Biome Renewables, is inspired by biomimetic design principles. The technology replicates the silent flight characteristics of owls, aiming to reduce aerodynamic noise produced by turbine blades. It combines advanced materials and innovative manufacturing methods to ensure durability and long-term performance.

Biome Renewables CEO and CTO Ryan Church said: “Working collaboratively with ENERCON, we can further the transition to a clean energy economy by reducing turbine noise and increasing the social and business case viability of wind power.” He added: “Engineered with biomimetic design principles, FeatherEdge performance lies in how it emulates the silence of the owl’s flight. Combined with innovative materials and manufacturing to ensure robust durability and performance, FeatherEdge is poised to revolutionise turbine noise solutions for the wind power industry.”

The collaboration aims to integrate FeatherEdge seamlessly into ENERCON’s turbine systems while maintaining operational efficiency. The project reflects both companies’ shared commitment to innovation, environmental responsibility, and enhanced turbine performance. By focusing on acoustic optimization, ENERCON and Biome Renewables seek to improve the acceptance and competitiveness of wind energy in noise-sensitive areas.

In addition to this partnership, ENERCON earlier this year signed a two-year agreement with Enercity Erneuerbare, valued at up to €800 million ($914.5 million), with an option for extension. The contract covers the supply of 100 wind turbines of various models, reinforcing ENERCON’s position as a leading provider of advanced wind energy solutions.

Through these initiatives, ENERCON continues to expand its technological capabilities and strengthen its role in the global renewable energy sector, contributing to the ongoing development of quieter, more efficient, and environmentally sustainable wind power systems.