Project overview:

Impact of Low Level Jets on Atlantic Coast Offshore Wind Farm Performance

Awardee:

GE Research

Start Date:

Q2, 2020

Technical Challenge Area:

Wind Resource and Site Characterization

Completion Date:

Q4, 2023

Synopsis:

GE will research the characteristics and impacts of low level jets (LLJs), an atmospheric phenomenon, on wind turbines. LLJs are characterized by a layer of high-shear, high-velocity wind from the ocean surface up to a peak velocity altitude, and therefore can lead to a very different turbine response compared to conventional power-law wind profile

Target Outcomes:

Conduct research to better understand the characteristics and effects of LLJs, which are unique atmospheric phenomena that can significantly impact energy production.

Develop tools and knowledge that will improve the ability to predict how LLJs interact with large offshore wind turbines. This includes understanding how LLJs affect turbine performance differently from the conventional power-law wind profile.

Use the research findings to inform optimization of offshore wind turbine design and control strategies to account for LLJs.