This Wooden Wind Turbine, Newly Commissioned, Is Even More Eco-Friendly!

Swedish startup Modvion has reached a new milestone in the wind energy sector by commissioning "Wind of Change," the world's tallest wooden wind turbine at a height of 344 feet (105 meters). This technological feat is based on a structure entirely made of wood modules, offering an innovative alternative to traditional metal wind turbines.


Founded in 2016, Modvion used the Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL) technique to build a 344-foot-tall mast from quarter-circle shaped modules, consisting of 144 layers of spruce. These modules are then transported to the site and glued together, thus eliminating the need for thousands of bolts usually used to fix the metal parts of a wind turbine.

Although thicker than its metal counterpart, this wooden structure is lighter, offering a favorable strength-to-weight ratio. According to the designers, the wooden mast's lifespan would exceed that of the mechanical parts of conventional wind turbines.

Goal: Modularity and Carbon Footprint Reduction

Modvion's main goal with this wooden wind turbine is to ease the logistics related to the transport and installation of wind turbines while reducing their carbon footprint. The stacked modules are less bulky and lighter, simplifying transport and allowing the installation of wind turbines in hard-to-reach areas.


According to Modvion, the wooden mast has a carbon footprint 90% lower than a metal mast, also acting as a carbon sink by storing carbon throughout its life. Currently operational, the wind turbine provides clean energy to 400 households in the Skara region of Sweden.

Although this wooden wind turbine does not compete in power with its steel counterparts, its structural and environmental advantages could propel it onto the forefront of the energy scene. Modvion plans to build 100 wooden towers per year by 2027, aiming for heights exceeding 656 feet (200 meters). By eliminating the need for additional reinforcements related to the weight of steel towers, the wooden model offers an easier-to-transport, install, and maintain alternative.