Grayside Wind Farm LiDAR Installation
Project overview
Riversdale Enterprises were at the pre-planning application stage for the development of a wind farm in Biggar, South Lanarkshire. Already running a noise survey they required a wind monitoring campaign to run concurrently. It is assumed that Grayside wind farm will be a very productive site due to the exceptional wind resource, highlighted by the number of other developments in the surrounding area. Accurate wind resource data was required however, in order to proceed with the project.
Background
Wind energy potential assessments are crucial for accurate wind farm siting. Project profitability often relies on reducing uncertainty around wind resource estimates and on fine-tuning turbine layout design.
Dulas’ recommendation was to rent a WindCube LiDAR remote sensing solution and DuraSource on the site to keep costs to a minimum. LiDAR technology is a cost effective way of collecting reliable data to enable an accurate evaluation of potential wind energy on site. Although not as comprehensive as data from a traditional met mast, LiDAR can measure at a much greater height.
Implementation
The remote location meant very challenging terrain and required the use of off-road and agricultural vehicles for access. With no mains power available Dulas then deployed the CE marked DuraSource remote power supply to provide a reliable electricity source. The WindCube can be operated remotely via WIFI and uses 3G to send its data to WindCube Insights Analytics, a powerful cloud-based software that enables easier, IEC-compliant power performance testing (PPT) and analysis. Operators can then perform quick, simple, transparent PPT, with IEC-compliant filtering, AEP calculation, and uncertainties reporting.
“A good wind measurement strategy which reduces uncertainty around wind resource estimation can mean higher leverage when seeking financing. It allows the developer to increase the rate of return on their company equity.”
Conclusion of project
In its Energy Strategy published in 2017, the Scottish Government set out a target of achieving “the equivalent of 50% of the energy for Scotland’s heat, transport and electricity consumption to be supplied from renewable sources” by 2030. In order to achieve this, approximately 17 GW of installed capacity will be required throughout Scotland and onshore wind will be a key factor in achieving these goals. Grayside Wind Farm will contribute to local and national targets by adding in excess of 50 MW of onshore wind capacity and producing low carbon electricity over its 30 year anticipated lifetime.
WindCube
The WindCube is a CE approved, integrated LiDAR system that has proven its reliability and bankability of data in all kinds of environments worldwide.
Made by Vaisala, it is the most compact and robust wind LiDAR ever manufactured. Capable of measuring at 20 heights simultaneously, and accurate across a range of heights up to 300m, the WindCube is recognised around the globe for reliable and consistent wind measurements.
From energy yield assessment to power performance testing and optimisation, the WindCube is accepted onshore and offshore by all international standards and guidelines, including IEC, IEA, Measnet, TR6, and Stage 3 DNV-GL.
Thousands of Vaisala LiDARs have been deployed throughout the world and their instruments are renowned for consistently delivering reliable, accurate data that results in a maximised return on investment. Dulas is proud to be the exclusive Service Partner for the Vaisala WindCube in the UK and Ireland.
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