Journal of Fundamentals of Renewable Energy and Applications
Open Access
ISSN: 2090-4541
+44 1300 500008
ISSN: 2090-4541
+44 1300 500008
Philip Totaro
Totaro & Associates, Germany
Posters & Accepted Abstracts: J Fundam Renewable Energy Appl
Over 11,000 innovations have been cataloged and analyzed related to horizontal-axis, utility scale wind including components, construction & installation methods, as well as O&M. This analysis includes the determination of the technology readiness level, likelihood of commercial adoption, R&D as well as commercialization costs associated with a specific technology, and lastly the cost and performance benchmarking and impact on LCOE. The blades, gearboxes, generators, and electrical systems of the wind turbines are the largest areas of focus historically, because these components represented the largest piece of turbine CapEx and they presented the greatest opportunity for LCOE reduction. Blades, drivetrain and electrical systems have also been the most problematic for turbine manufacturers and sub-component suppliers when it comes to component reliability, so they have garnered a great deal of attention and innovation to improve quality and performance. More recent trends indicate a focus on controls, foundations, construction methods, vessels, safety technology and O&M. Numerous of the fleet management technologies which are being developed in onshore will also have dual-use capability to impact offshore. Energy output optimization, remote inspection, predictive maintenance determination and scheduling will all have a profound influence on LCOE reduction below the 5 cent per kWhr threshold. Additionally, more certainty around component reliability would enable WACC reduction that would have a greater impact on wind LCOE than technology innovations to improve AEP or lower CapEx or OpEx. This aspect of innovation development will require deeper investigation along with the technology trend areas identified.
Email: info@totaro-associates.com