Wasted Wind

Wind Energy / Economics

Date posted: 01/08/15

A Los Alamos simulation shows why turbulent air flows are causing power losses and turbine failures in American wind farms. Denmark Horns Rev 1 offshore wind farm was observed just as weather conditions created fog in the wake of each wind turbine. The more turbulent downstream air can cause power losses and mechanical problems for turbines behind the front row. Modern wind turbines have a design life of 20 years and yet break down 2 to 3 times in the first 10 years.