Impacto na otimização do layout de parques eólicos offshore através de diferentes modelagens de wake effect

Abstract

With the increasing penetration of wind energy in both global and Brazilian energy matrices, analyzing its characteristics becomes essential. Optimizing turbine layout is crucial to maximize energy efficiency while minimizing the wake effect. This effect reduces wind speed for downstream turbines, resulting in lower power extraction and increased structural load due to higher turbulence. This leads to additional wear and reduced operational efficiency of downstream turbines. Several models have been developed to simulate the wake effect, each with specific characteristics and applicability. Each model has distinct parameters that must be properly calibrated. The choice of model depends on the specific modeling needs, wind farm layout complexity, location, and availability of calibration data. This work proposes a comparison of these models for offshore wind farms in Brazil, aiming to determine the differences in calculated power and the layouts identified as optimal for each model. This study analyzes five wake effect models: Jensen, Larsen, Frandsen, 2D-k Jensen, and Gaussian Jensen in a fictional wind farm and later in two offshore wind farms undergoing licensing in northeastern Brazil. The analysis allowed for a detailed comparison of the complexity and modeling of the different models, as well as an evaluation of variations in energy estimates and layouts optimized by the algorithms. The Jensen model stands out for its simplicity, while the Frandsen and Larsen models tend to be more optimistic. In contrast, the 2D-k Jensen and Gaussian Jensen models present a more pessimistic perspective. To solve the wind farm layout problem, computational tools and appropriate methods are required due to the complexity of the problem, such as heuristic methods. In this study, the Bat Algorithm (BA), a global optimization technique inspired by bats’ echolocation, which maps the environment and locates prey and obstacles using ultrasonic waves, was used. The comparative analysis of wake effect models and the application of the BA for layout optimization in offshore wind farms in Brazil highlight the importance of precise modeling and effective solution methods. The proper choice of wake effect model and efficient layout optimization are essential to maximize energy generation and ensure the sustainability and economic viability of offshore wind projects.