EngD Studentship at Loughborough University

Array Losses in Large Wind Farms

Context/Background
E.ON is the owner/operator of large wind farms, both on- and off-shore. The company has an active programme of building further, larger wind farms, for example in the context of the UK Crown Estates Round 3 programme.

Each successive row of wind turbines in a wind farm takes kinetic energy from the wind. There is usually insufficient distance between rows for the wind’s kinetic energy to be fully replenished by turbulent mixing of momentum from the atmospheric boundary layer adjacent to the wind farm.

Existing methods for estimating array loss are inadequate for large wind farms. This reduces confidence in the projected electricity yields of proposed wind farms. New methods are required to provide the necessary reassurance.

Aims and Objectives
The aim of this project is to develop a fundamental calculation method for array losses in large wind farms

Methods and Current Status
Initially a simple Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model will be set up of the wind flow past a single wind turbine in flat, open terrain. This model would be improved to allow for more turbines and steadily more complex representations. The ultimate aim is to represent wind farms in realistic terrain, and in offshore wind farms.

The model results will be compared with the results of other calculation methods, and especially with performance data from operational wind farms.

Until recently the standard methods were semi-empirical, being based on wind tunnel tests on model wind farms carried out in the electricity supply industry and elsewhere in the early days of wind farms. These methods do not predict the performance of large wind farms at all adequately. E.ON has updated its methods, as has the competing consultant Garrad Hassan. However the real answer is to develop a comprehensive CFD model. E.ON has commenced on a CFD model with simple turbine representation: the object of the present proposal is to develop a more comprehensive version of this model which will be proof against still larger wind farms and larger turbines.

Benefits/Expected Outcomes
A robust model of array loss which will provide needed reassurance in the decision process to build larger wind farms.

A Research Engineer is required to work on the above project with one of the Centre's industrial sponsors. Applicants should be highly motivated and have (or expect to obtain by October 2010) a minimum of an upper second class honours degree or equivalent in an appropriate engineering/science discipline. A lower qualification is acceptable if supplemented with an appropriate postgraduate qualification (e.g. MBA/MSc) and/or substantial industrial experience. Experienced engineers/scientists are particularly encouraged to apply.

Funding Notes
Successful applicants can expect to receive in excess of £17,800 tax free per annum. Students will spend 70-80% of their time working at the sponsoring company and will only attend the University for modules within the first 2 years of study. Tuition fees will be paid at UK/EU student rate. The degree of 'Doctor of Engineering' (EngD) will be awarded on successful completion of the programme. The programme is full time for four years.

Further details can be found on our website http://www.cice.org.uk