New technology developed at Edinburgh University is set to make wind power cheaper and more reliable.

The technology replaces the complex gearboxes in existing wind turbines with a lightweight, direct drive system that is easier to manufacture and cheaper to maintain.

Researchers at the University's School of Engineering say the new C-GEN technology is as much as 50 per cent lighter than current direct drive generator systems, leading to significant savings in manufacturing and operating costs.

A new company, called NGenTec, has been spun out of the University to commercialise the technology.

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The spin out has been managed by Edinburgh Research and Innovation (ERI), the University’s successful research and commercialisation arm, which is currently celebrating its 40th anniversary.

University researchers have demonstrated two prototype C-GEN generators. NGenTec is now seeking to raise £4 million in funding to develop the C-GEN technology for commercial use.

The wind energy market worldwide has grown by 28 per cent per year over the past decade, and continued rapid expansion is expected as more countries seek to harness the benefits of environmentally friendly wind power.

Under a licensing deal arranged by ERI, the University has a minority stake in NGenTec. The initial research to prove the concept was funded by Scottish Enterprise.

Derek Shepherd, Chairman and acting Chief Executive of NGenTec, said: "Our technology has the potential to revolutionise the renewable energy industry by making wind power cheaper and more reliable, greatly increasing the efficiency of wind turbines for electricity companies."

(GK/BMcC)