German Manufacturer Selects TechnoCentre éolien to Optimize Production of Wind Turbines in Icing Conditions

Jan 15 2016

Over the next three years and in partnership with Senvion Canada, the Gaspé, PQ-based TechnoCentre éolien (TCE) will aim to optimize the control function of Senvion MM wind turbines in icing conditions. The intent is to maximize energy production while minimizing risk to the structural integrity of the turbine and its components. The total value of this project is $1,183,985.

The project will help improve icing detection, validate the icing load, and optimize the turbine’s control parameter during icing events. These objectives will be achieved by
• measuring no fewer than four Senvion MM CCV wind turbines currently operating at several wind farms in Quebec in moderate to severe icing conditions
• fitting the turbines with additional meteorological instruments and icing sensors.
• analyzing and correlating meteorological, operational, icing load and structural load data
• optimizing the turbines’ control function in icing conditions based on the results of analyses and simulations.

“Over the past few years, the TechnoCentre éolien has developed an expertise in icing characterization and video image analysis,” says Frédéric Côté, General Manager of the TechnoCentre éolien. “Today, this expertise allows us to undertake this large and important research project with Senvion Canada, a trustworthy partner of TCE with whom we have collaborated for a number of years”

According to Helmut Herold, CEO of Senvion in North America, “A partnership such as this brings into light the continued innovation that is emerging in Quebec which always aims to improve on existing standards. TCE has been a pioneer in Quebec’s research and development in wind technologies, and Senvion Canada’s renewed partnership strives to build on continuing such strong innovations.”

The project benefits from a research subsidy of $448,032 granted by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada to the Cégep de la Gaspésie et des Îles in liaison with the TechnoCentre éolien. The project will also have considerable advantages for the teaching establishment, notably through student involvement. A contribution from Senvion Canada estimated at $735,953 completes the cost of the project.