Journal
JOURNAL OF OCEAN ENGINEERING AND MARINE ENERGY
Volume 8, Issue 2, Pages 193-215Publisher
SPRINGERNATURE
DOI: 10.1007/s40722-022-00225-2
Keywords
Array optimisation; Tidal turbines; FLORIS; Shallow-water equations
Categories
Funding
- NERC Industrial Innovation fellowship [NE/R013209/2]
- Tidal Stream Industry Energiser project (TIGER)
- EPSRC [EP/M011054/1, EP/R029423/1]
- European Regional Development Fund through the INTERREG France (Channel) England Programme
Ask authors/readers for more resources
This study presents a novel optimization approach that combines an analytical-based wake model with an ocean model for tidal-stream energy array optimization. By utilizing simple heuristic techniques and an analytical wake superposition method, the approach allows for cost-effective optimization of array layouts. The methodology is applied to the Pentland Firth and demonstrates significant improvements in power performance compared to traditional layouts.
For tidal-stream energy to become a competitive renewable energy source, clustering multiple turbines into arrays is paramount. Array optimisation is thus critical for achieving maximum power performance and reducing cost of energy. However, ascertaining an optimal array layout is a complex problem, subject to specific site hydrodynamics and multiple inter-disciplinary constraints. In this work, we present a novel optimisation approach that combines an analytical-based wake model, FLORIS, with an ocean model, Thetis. The approach is demonstrated through applications of increasing complexity. By utilising the method of analytical wake superposition, the addition or alteration of turbine position does not require re-calculation of the entire flow field, thus allowing the use of simple heuristic techniques to perform optimisation at a fraction of the computational cost of more sophisticated methods. Using a custom condition-based placement algorithm, this methodology is applied to the Pentland Firth for arrays with turbines of 3.05m/s rated speed, demonstrating practical implications whilst considering the temporal variability of the tide. For a 24-turbine array case, micro-siting using this technique delivered an array 15.8% more productive on average than a staggered layout, despite flow speeds regularly exceeding the rated value. Performance was evaluated through assessment of the optimised layout within the ocean model that treats turbines through a discrete turbine representation. Used iteratively, this methodology could deliver improved array configurations in a manner that accounts for local hydrodynamic effects.
Authors
I am an author on this paper
Click your name to claim this paper and add it to your profile.
Reviews
Recommended
No Data Available