Validation of a traceable efficiency determination method for wind turbines with a focus on measurement uncertainty

Abstract

Abstract. All around the world, new plans and strategies are being implemented for installing energy-efficient wind turbines in order to increase renewable energy capacities and meet the demand for clean energy. Advances in wind turbine technologies and their extremely sophisticated systems have led to an increasing need for proper efficiency determination methods, both in the field and on test benches, to keep up with the accelerated deployment of wind turbines around the globe. This paper examines the feasibility and practicability of new wind turbine efficiency determination methods on test benches that are based on international standards for electrical machines. Test methods and the static calibration certificates of the employed specialised instruments and sensors were used to evaluate the efficiency and associated measurement uncertainties in ambient conditions. Furthermore, the results were compared with those obtained through the innovative iso-efficiency method, which comprehensively maps the wide operating range of wind turbines.