LORC Test Center
The LORC test and demonstration center is under establishment and will be a collection of test facilities aimed at creating cost reductions in offshore renewable energy. It will consist of a testing and demonstration facility for full-sized wind turbine nacelles, Lindoe Nacelle Testing (LNT); a welding center, Lindoe Welding Center (LWC), focusing on new production methods that can reduce material and manpower expenses; and several partial testing facilities for mechanical tests, test rigs for oils and filters, etc. (Mechanical Testing). LORC also aims to facilitate testing of foundations and substructures.
The test center employs highly experienced engineers in the fields of mechanical, structural, electrical, and material know-how. See the staff.
A highly specialized center for testing and demonstration
The centerpiece of LORC Test Center is Lindoe Nacelle Testing – LNT, which will be the world’s most advanced realistic test for full-sized nacelles. LORC also has a range of facilities for conducting partial, mechanical testing. With the Lindoe Welding Center – LWC, LORC’s specific ambition is to develop welding techniques for the future, which will be used, for example, in the production of towers and foundations for offshore turbines.
Background
According to the European Wind Energy Association (EWEA), almost 6 GW of offshore wind capacity is under construction in Europe, and 17 GW have been consented by EU member states. It is vital to identify technological opportunities that contribute to the competitiveness of offshore renewable energy relative to conventional energy sources. This requires improved product testing and demonstration to reduce the expensive downtime for offshore wind turbines.
Knowledge sharing and innovation
LORC believes that the offshore renewable energy industry will only succeed if knowledge and innovation is developed on a continuous basis. This is why the LORC Knowledge Center gathers and disseminates directly applicable information about research and innovation in offshore renewables technology. Founded by and working with some of the biggest companies in the industry – including utilities, project developers, manufacturers, and suppliers –, LORC possesses many years’ worth of technological ability and expertise.