The M5000 is  lightweight despite its output of 5MW. The nacelle and rotor together weigh approximately 349 tons. This relatively low weight facilitates the transport and erection of the turbines; a crucial factor when working on the open sea. The nacelle is assembled onshore by qualified technicians from AREVA Wind, so that it can be lifted offshore onto the tower as a complete unit. This saves time and costs and guarantees a high degree of safety. The reduced weight of the nacelle also allows for cost-effective tower and foundation structures.

Compact with concept. The M5000 is a space-saving feat, harbouring extensive technology in a confined space. The specific configuration of the technical components in the relatively small nacelle is the result of extensive studies on conventional plants. Its compact design is made possible by the intelligent integration of the rotor bearing, gearbox and generator, thus dispensing with the need for housings for plant components. The small plant dimensions lead to short paths for load transmission to the tower head – ideal for offshore wind energy plants.

Since reliability is such a decisive factor for the plant efficiency of large wind turbine, this has been a top priority right from the start. The low rotational speed and the low number of rotating parts and roller bearings reduce the risk of damage to the central drive train of the M5000 to a minimum. In addition, all key auxiliary aggregates and sensors are installed in duplicate, so that their failure does not lead to a complete shutdown. A monitoring system permanently checks the status of key components and reliably reports any irregularity. This makes maintenance work easier to plan and more efficient.