Investigation of turbulence intensity and wind shear impacts on the power output of a wind turbine

Abstract

As electricity production transitions to more renewable sources, wind has become one of the top methods of energy generation. Therefore, research in the wind power systems has gained high importance over the last two decades. The purpose of this study is to investigate the turbulence intensity and wind shear influences on the power output of a wind turbine. Dissimilar cases have been formed and comparisons have been represented in order to understand the impacts on the produced power. Simulations are run by employing FAST (Fatigue, Aerodynamics, Structures, and Turbulence) simulator and collected data is analyzed. Physical measurements have been collected and examined for the purpose of modelling and validating the simulator. The study has also illustrated the benefits and drawbacks of using LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) measurements. The overall results show how wind shear and turbulence intensity impact the power production and the power curve derived from hub height wind speed.