Wind Turbine Optimization & Wind Farm Optimization
Wind turbine and wind farm optimization solutions that reduce loads, improve production and reduce the cost of energy.
Our wind load and control experts specialize in wind turbine optimization and deliver a wide range of advanced control features. By applying advanced control integration knowhow and services, we are able to reduce loads and/or improve energy production and thereby reduce the cost of energy.
This includes algorithms and drives for controlling main turbine blade pitch, rotor speed, generator power and yaw positioning, but also the supporting functions such as cooling, lubrication, power supply, etc.
Annual energy production (AEP).
Unique proprietary control strategies to improve production and performance (2PI and torque).
Robust pitch and power control for optimal power production.
Individual pitch control for reduction of nacelle tilt and yaw, blade and tower extreme and fatigue loads.
Drivetrain damping for reduction of fatigue loads on drivetrain and gearbox.
Active tower damping for reduction of tower fatigue loads.
Load and control software toolbox - to optimize the design and load calculations for all sizes of wind turbines.
Frequently Asked Questions about Wind Turbine and Wind Farm Optimization
Wind turbine optimization enhances the performance, efficiency, and reliability of individual wind turbines. This involves various advance control strategies aimed at maximizing wind turbine power output, minimizing the wear and tear, and reducing operational costs.
Some of the advanced control strategies used in a wind turbine optimization program may include real-time operation tracking, extended cut-out speed, self-calibrating yaw control, individual pitch control, power boost, and automatic rotor imbalance correction.
Wind farm optimization (or wind park optimization) involves a variety of technological advancements and improvements to individual turbines that collectively enhance the performance and efficiency of the entire wind farm. One significant advancement is the implementation of self-calibrating yaw control systems. These systems continuously adjust the orientation of each turbine to maximize energy capture and offset the effects of wake turbulence within the wind farm.
Another critical aspect of wind farm optimization is the integration of advanced farm control systems. These systems manage the overall output of the wind farm by processing a single setpoint from the System/Grid Operator for overall farm output - megawatts (MW) and megavolt-amperes reactive (MVAR). They then distribute proportioned setpoints to individual turbines, ensuring consistent and reliable farm output in line with the desired setpoint and compliant with grid stability models. This function is particularly essential for meeting System Operator requirements and is crucial for maintaining precise control over wind farm output, a task that is challenging to achieve with human operators alone.
The benefits of these optimization techniques include enhanced turbine performance and increased overall energy production. By ensuring regulatory compliance and reducing the need for manual intervention, wind farm control systems significantly improve operational efficiency. Wind farm/park optimization is particularly advantageous for both modern installations and upgrades to older sites, especially those currently lacking advanced park controllers. It is also suitable for large-scale energy projects aiming to achieve optimized performance and regulatory adherence, ultimately paving the way for more sustainable and efficient wind energy solutions.