Wind experts blow in

One of the main barriers to offshore wind’s profitability is the cost of maintenance.

Systems being showcased at the University of Hull next month allow the turbines to continue producing electricity in different wind speeds and to survive undamaged even in extreme weather.

Prof Ron Patton, from the university’s engineering department, said: “While the technology is proven, it is still evolving and our aim is to make the next generation of wind turbines more cost-effective, reliable, safe and easier to maintain.”