"This new generation will have blades exceeding 100 metres and increasing forces on the components"
The GEROWIND project seeks to anticipate the technological challenges facing the next generation of large-scale wind turbines
This new generation will have blades exceeding 100 metres and increasing forces on the components, so the industry needs advanced solutions to ensure efficiency and reliability.
TECNALIA, with more than 20 years of experience in the offshore wind sector, plays a key role in providing knowledge and strategic developments that will make a difference to the competitiveness of the Basque wind energy sector.
Objectives and contributions
TECNALIA leads several lines of work aimed at improving the performance and resilience of wind farms:
- Revenue-focused wind farm controller (AEV): versus the traditional approach focused on maximising the energy generated (AEP). TECNALIA is developing a smart controller that optimises captured revenue, integrating wake effects and real wind farm conditions. This development will enable more accurate and cost-effective management, aligned with the dynamics of the electricity market.
- Analytical physical model of the powertrain: a holistic model of the drive train is being built and will be validated in the laboratory. This model will make it possible to reliably simulate the performance of critical components under different operating scenarios, anticipating failures and optimising the design.
- Advanced regression algorithms for predictive maintenance: TECNALIA is working on AI-based solution to:
- Predict loads and estimate remaining useful life of critical components
- Detect anomalies and categorise faults in real time
- Evaluate loads in the control loop, improving system response to changing conditions.
Expected impact
- With these tools, GEROWIND will provide manufacturers and operators with models and algorithms that increase reliability, reduce costs and maximise profitability of wind farms.
- In addition, its holistic approach, incorporating wake effects and real operating conditions, will make it possible to anticipate trends and meet the challenges of the new generation of wind turbines.
The GEROWIND project, funded by the Basque Government's Elkartek programme, is coordinated by Ikerlan, and Mondragon Goi Eskola Politeknikoa, Tekniker and Basquenergy Cluster are also participating.