B Maximizing Wind Turbine Efficiency: Is Redirecting Wind Worth the Cost?

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The discussion centers on the feasibility of using inexpensive structures to redirect wind toward turbines versus investing in more turbines. Participants emphasize that existing wind farm designs have likely explored various efficiency improvements, implying that if a method were effective, it would already be in use. The complexity of aerodynamics is highlighted, suggesting that creating effective redirecting structures would require significant resources and engineering expertise. Concerns are raised about the practicality of maintaining such structures to always face the wind and the potential inefficiencies they might introduce. Ultimately, the consensus leans toward relying on proven turbine designs rather than untested innovations.
  • #31
Most countries that have a subsidy base it on the amount of electricity generated so it's in the interests of the wind farm developer to generate as much as possible. So it's not subsidies that stop developers installing larger turbines. Most new onshore turbines in the UK are 120-136m tall. Larger turbines are available (190m) but they aren't normally used onshore due to the impact on the landscape. They are however used offshore. If you use big turbines you need fewer of them and fewer foundations, cables etc so the capital cost per MW is lower. There are lots of reasons why developers would like to install bigger turbines.
 
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  • #32
It's not too late to be asking the OP what kW rating alternator is being planned. There are two threads progressing, unaware of each other and in parallel, I think. Comments about one do not apply to the other.
 

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