Greenboats, based in Bremen, Germany, has been nominated for the 2021 JEC Renewable Energy Innovation Award for its development of the first offshore nacelle manufactured with natural fibre composites (NFCs).

By incorporating Bcomp’s ampliTex flax reinforcements, FSC certified balsa wood cores and bio-based resins, the nacelle’s construction saves approximately 60% CO2 equivalent and reduces the energy consumption by over 50% compared to a nacelle made with existing glass fibre reinforced plastic (GFRP) technology.

In addition to the lower CO2 footprint, the natural fibre composite structure also introduces viable options for the end of the product’s – an issue of increasing concern for the wind energy sector

Sicomin, the formulator and supplier of GreenPoxy bio-based epoxy resin systems, supplied its DNV GL approved InfuGreen 810 resin system that was used to infuse the nacelle’s main structural sandwich panels, as well as providing intumescent FR gelcoats, bio-based laminating resins and UV resistant clear coatings. 

“We are thrilled to be nominated as finalists for this prestigious award and are delighted that the judges have recognised the environmental and lifecycle benefits of our natural fibre composite nacelle demonstrator for the next generation of onshore and offshore wind turbines,” said Friedrich J. Deimann, Founder and CEO of GREENBOATS.

The winners of the JEC 2021 awards will be announced during JEC Connect which will be held on the 1st and 2nd of June.

www.green-boats.de