INDUSTRY ARTICLE
COMPLEX TERRAIN MAKES FOR A COMPLEX SITUATION So far, these complex topographic formations have made it difficult to provide reliable predictions of the potential energy yields. Based on topography, actual wind conditions may deviate more strongly from the common calculation models and computer simulations as is generally the case. Depending on the wind direction, air flows may be diverted, slowed down or accelerated differently. As a general principle, wind speed may thus be higher or lower than predicted by the models.
Yield predictions in this region are made even more difficult by the fact that the number of wind turbines per square kilometre is still relatively low. Given this, data on the energy yield of wind turbines in the vicinity are virtually non-existent. In the North German plains, the data from these “validation turbines” are frequently used to verify yield predictions.
However, even if wind turbines were operated near Erbendorf, the data measured at these sites could not simply be used to infer wind conditions at the new projected site. In the main wind direction, for example, a nearby site may be located in the lee of a mountain range, while another site in the direct vicinity may benefit from unobstructed, low-turbulence winds blowing at high velocity.
ON LOW MOUNTAIN RANGES NO TWO SITES ARE THE SAME As wind conditions even at nearby sites can differ so widely, standardised wind measurement is an important prerequisite for reliable yield prediction and the only possibility for the project initiators at Natural Energy Solutions of obtaining certainty concerning the actual wind conditions.
This in turn is important for project funding and the preparation of a bankable wind report. Reliable data are needed to compare investment and operating costs with the energy yields and the income generated by the wind farm, in order to assess its profitability.
Forest areas on low mountain ranges in southern Germany can indeed offer high-wind sites, as demonstrated by the results of TÜV SÜD’s wind measurements after one year of operation.
The simple generalisation that wind speeds in these regions are normally too low does not do justice to the terrain’s complex topography. However, to identify viable sites, standardised wind measurements are needed because predictions prepared with the help of simulation models are fraught with uncertainties due to the complex terrain.
SUMMARY
Provided high-wind sites that offer excellent viability for wind farms are identified, regions located on Germany’s low mountain ranges can also contribute significantly to the success of the energy transition.
Peter Herbert Meier TÜV SÜD Industrie Service
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www.windenergynetwork.co.uk
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