German wind turbine maker ENERCON has teamed up with Canadian clean technology company Biome Renewables to explore wind turbine noise-reduction technology. 

The two companies signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to collaborate on reducing wind turbine noise using Biome's FeatherEdge serration technology. 

ENERCON CTO 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 FeatherEdge technology will be further validated on ENERCON's E-160 EP5 turbines in Germany, based on promising independent test results earlier this year. 

This process will involve comprehensive noise testing according to  International Electrotechnical Commission standards across various noise modes. 

The collaboration aims to ensure seamless integration and performance of FeatherEdge on ENERCON turbines. 

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.” 

“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.” 

Earlier this year, ENERCON entered into a partnership agreement with Enercity Erneuerbare, valued at up to €800m ($914.5m). 

The contract, which spans two years with an option for extension, will involve the delivery of 100 wind turbines of various types.