New Zealand's Windflow adapts turbine for use in America

New Zealand wind turbine manufacturer Windflow Technology has signed a non-binding agreement with US wind developer Na Makani Moa'e Ku for the supply of its Windflow 500 units for a project in Hawaii. Negotiations are underway for the supply of two test machines next year, with the intention to expand on that later. The manufacturer plans to adapt its 500 kW machines for 60 Hz use in the US. Windflow buys 92% of its components in New Zealand and sees exports of its wind turbine technology as important for long term growth. At home, with five of its turbines installed at the Te Rere Hau wind farm near Palmerston North, another 28 are on order for the staged further development of the project which will eventually total 97 turbines with a combined capacity of 48.5 MW. The wind farm is due for completion in 2009.