Use Cases

Background

In Sweden, where the temperature can drop to −6 °C during the winter, maximizing wind energy production can have unique challenges. Ice formation on wind turbine blades not only impedes efficiency but also presents safety hazards due to potential ice throw. Through the use of ice protection methods, wind farm operators can mitigate these challenges and ensure consistent energy production while generating additional revenue.

Problem: 10% Loss of Annual Energy Production (AEP)

At a wind farm in Sweden with Icing Class 4 conditions (Figure 1), ice accumulation on turbine blades could lead to an approximate 10% loss in AEP. For a 6.2 MW turbine operating at a 40% capacity factor, this translates to a significant loss of revenue over the course of a year. Surface heating and generic heating solutions for ice mitigation often fall short, resulting in costly downtime and possible safety risks due to ice throw.

Solution: Comprehensive Ice Protection

The BorealisWind Ice Protection System (IPS) is a comprehensive solution that uses an innovative meteorological sensor to detect icing events before they begin and trigger the blade heating system. By integrating advanced anti-icing and de-icing technologies, the IPS effectively prevents ice formation on turbine blades, ensuring uninterrupted operation even in the harshest winter conditions.

Results = 67% Return on Investment

Within the first year of installing the IPS, a wind farm in Sweden could earn a remarkable return on investment of 67%!

The IPS could mitigate an estimated 60% of icing-related AEP losses, translating to increased revenue of more than $130,000 per turbine. With no service or maintenance costs to consider, the IPS can mitigate icing-related AEP losses and increase revenue.