Success of a wind project starts by selecting an optimum site and, for that, there are four key aspects of wind-farm siting, said Chris Parcell, Director of Feasibility and Development at SgurrEnergy. The first is to inspect the land and determine whether it is possible to obtain construction permits. Next, a developer must analyze the wind resource at the site. This involves measuring wind speed to ensure it can generate enough energy to create revenue, and deciding on which turbines will work longest and require the least possible maintenance.

When siting a location for a wind farm, several protocols are worth observing for success. Most important is conducting a professional wind-measurement campaign.

A developer then has to examine the grid connection, which is necessary to export power and earn revenue. The costs and capacities of grid connection vary depending on location. Finally, environmental restraints must be weighed. Constraints may include ecological concerns, noise, shadow flicker, and visual impact.

When siting a location for a wind farm, several protocols are worth observing for success. Most important is conducting a professional wind-measurement campaign.

“Wind measurements are needed to determine the economic viability of the project, as well as to determine the suitability of the turbine design for a site,” said Jay Haley, Principal in Charge of Wind Energy at consulting firm EAPC. To obtain the most reliable data possible, developers should use quality instruments to collect data at the wind-turbine hub height for at least one full year prior to installation.

Parcell added that developers must also carry out an environmental impact assessment, which is typically required by the permitting authority and financial institutions. These surveys typically consist of studying the ecology and ornithology of the site, peat probing (a soil analysis), noise modeling, and visual studies. The goal is to avoid or minimize potential impacts on the environment.

The available transmission capacity is also important to inspect, said Haley. Depending on the upgrades or additions necessary to accommodate the wind farm, the transmission component could be a major cost item, which feeds into the financial feasibility of the site.

Parcell explained several other sensitive features worthy of consideration in siting protocols, such as the internal track layout and access points to the site based on the topography and survey results from the site. Together, all of this information can help accurately determine the optimal turbine layout for the site.

Developers are often met with challenges when performing site assessments. “Wind development is a complex and expensive process,” Haley said. “Bad decisions made early on can have expensive or even disastrous consequences later on.”

With this in mind, developers must understand that each site will present unique problems depending on the requirements of authorities and financial institutions. To help combat issues that arise, it is important to plan ahead and devise specific plans of action.

Another important task for developers is to strategically identify and solve challenges early on in the development process. Common issues include reducing the effect of wind turbines on aviation radar, managing forestry to maintain the safety of animals, and compensating residents on or near a proposed wind farm, said Parcell. Developers must also understand the requirements of banks and lenders whom they are working with to avoid costly delays.

During the development of a wind farm, it is also necessary to involve the community in the process. “Communities are important stakeholders in wind-farm developments because they could be directly affected in many ways such as construction traffic, visual impact, or noise,” added Parcell.

What’s more, with local support of a project, it is easier for developers to secure land leases and permits. It is common to see a planning committee determine wind-farm planning applications. These committees are typically made of elected members of the community who will represent the views of their constituents, which emphasizes the importance of gaining local support.

This section provided by Emily Wild, WPE&D research assistant.

The post What are the big wind-farm siting issues facing developers today? appeared first on Windpower Engineering & Development.

Mexico has ambitious renewables targets, aiming to add 20 GW of renewable energy by 2030 and generate 35% of the country’s energy from clean sources by 2024.

Renewable energy consultancy, SgurrEnergy, has boosted its presence in the Americas by opening an office in Mexico City.

Already active in Mexico, SgurrEnergy has worked on both wind and solar projects in the country, including energy yield prediction and wind feasibility, operational management of wind projects, and providing technical advisory services on solar developments.

This latest venture provides a base for SgurrEnergy, a Wood Group company, to strategically support the development of renewable energy in Mexico and surrounding countries.  The office is headed up by business development coordinator David Barrie.

Mexico has ambitious renewables targets, aiming to add 20 GW of renewable energy by 2030 and generate 35% of the country’s energy from clean resources by 2024. These targets have been backed up by legislation to open up the electricity market with further development of renewables, and there are plans for extensive grid infrastructure improvements in the country to cope with this energy growth.

“The opening of the Mexican office comes just a few months after we announced our expansion into Chile, representing healthy growth for SgurrEnergy and a strong presence in South and Central America,” said SgurrEnergy’s international office manager, Molly Iliffe. “With on the ground specialists in the region, we are looking forward to effectively supporting our clients towards their renewable energy goals.”

With nine locations across North and South America, SgurrEnergy is working extensively across both continents, utilizing the expertise and capabilities of its workforce of over 250 in 17 locations.

David Barrie, business development coordinator at SgurrEnergy, commented: “There is a huge amount of potential for renewable energy solutions in Mexico and with ambitious energy targets in place, this paves the way for significant growth and market development.  I’m looking forward to driving SgurrEnergy’s presence in the region.”

SgurrEnergy
www.sgurrenergy.com

The post SgurrEnergy moves into Mexico appeared first on Windpower Engineering & Development.