Can you explain the concept of wind farm wake effects and how they influence energy production?

Sample interview questions: Can you explain the concept of wind farm wake effects and how they influence energy production?

Sample answer:

1. Wind Farm Wake Effects:
2. When wind passes through a wind turbine, it creates a region of reduced wind speed and increased turbulence behind the turbine, known as the wake.

3. Wake effects extend downwind and laterally from the turbine, affecting the performance of turbines located downstream.

4. Impact on Energy Production:

5. Reduced Wind Speed: Downstream turbines experience reduced wind speed due to the wake of upstream turbines, leading to lower energy production.
6. Increased Turbulence: The wake also brings increased turbulence, which can cause fatigue and damage to turbine components, affecting long-term energy production.

7. Power Losses: Wake effects can result in power losses of up to 20% for downstream turbines, depending on wind speed, turbine spacing, and wind farm layout.

8. Factors Influencing Wake Effects:

9. Turbine Size and Spacing: Larger turbines with closer spacing create stronger wakes and have a more significant impact on downstream turbines.
10. Wind Direction and Speed: Wake effects are more pronounced when the wind direction is aligned with the turbine row, leading to reduced energy production.
11. Topographical Features: Hills and valleys can channel wind through narrow passes, intensifying wake effects and increasing power losses.

12. Atmospheric Stabi… Read full answer

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