UpWind Solution will install its Vortex Generator (VG) technology on 300 turbines owned by EDP Renewables.
UpWind has devised an optimized installation pattern for each blade type along with repeatable templates to increase speed and accuracy.
EDP Renewables Executive Vice President of Asset Operations, Brian Hayes, stated “Extensive trials on many projects and turbine types over several years have clearly demonstrated the value of vortex generators and we’re proceeding with installation at a number of our projects throughout the US.”
VGs improve the wind flow characteristics of the blades letting them produce more lift and thereby improve turbine efficiency. A reliable method for quantifying efficiency improvements lets UpWind provide EDP Renewables with a performance guarantee that both organizations are confident the vortex generators will exceed.
UpWind’s CEO, Peter Wells, stated “We are committed to providing the wind energy industry with solutions that enable more production, lower operating costs and longer asset life for a sustainable energy future. VGs are one of these solutions and we are thrilled to have secured this opportunity with EDPR, a leading owner operator with a highly sophisticated asset management model. It’s an important validation of an exciting product.”
UpWind Solutions partnered with SMART BLADE and 3M to develop a product that results in a safe, efficient, and repeatable installation process with an average one day installation period per turbine. The resulting VGs have an optimized installation pattern for each blade type, repeatable templates to increase speed and accuracy, 3M adhesive that is quick and easy to apply, and high safety standards using cost effective rope access teams. The VGs require minimal downtime to install while offering asset owners a safe and effective upgrade to their wind turbines.
UpWind Solutions
www.upwindsolutions.com
Filed Under: Blades, News, O&M
