Larger turbines and the future cost of wind energy
By: Eric Lantz & Maureen Hand
Contributors: Hand, M. Maureen; National Renewable Energy Laboratory (U.S.); European Wind Energy Association
Series: NREL/PO -- 6A20-50835; NREL/PO -- 6 A 20-50835.
Publisher: National Renewable Energy Laboratory
Published: 2011
Place of publication: Golden, CO
Language: eng
Format: [electronic resource] /
Subjects: Wind turbines; Technological innovations; Wind power; Economic aspects
Description: The move to larger turbines has been observed in the United States and around the world. Turbine scaling increases energy capture while reducing general project infrastructure costs and landscape impacts, each of which of can reduce the cost of wind energy. However, scaling in the absence of innovation, can increase turbine costs. The ability of turbine designers and manufacturers to continue to scale turbines, while simultaneously reducing costs, is an important factor in long-term viability of the industry. This research seeks to better understand how technology innovation can allow the continued development of larger turbines on taller towers while also achieving lower cost of energy. Modeling incremental technology improvements identified over the past decade demonstrates that cost reductions on the order of 10%, and capacity factor improvements on the order of 5% (for sites with annual mean wind speed of 7.25 m/s at 50m), are achievable for turbines up to 3.5 MW. However, to achieve a 10% cost reduction and a 10% capacity factor improvement for turbines up to 5 MW, additional technology innovations must be developed and implemented.
Notes: Title from title screen (viewed March 21, 2011).

Poster.

"Presented at the European Wind Energy Association Annual Event, March 14-17, 2011, Brussels, Belgium."

Includes bibliographical references.

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