Danish scientists complete testing of laser-equipped smart wind turbines

Scientists at Risø DTU (the National Laboratory for Sustainable Energy at the Technical University of Denmark), have reported the completion of successful testing of a “smart” wind turbine. Thanks to an on-board laser-based anemometer, the new system is capable of predicting wind direction, turbulence and gusts of wind.
“We estimate that future wind turbines can increase energy production while reducing extreme loads by using this laser system, which we call wind LIDAR,” says Torben Mikkelsen, Professor at Risø DTU.
LIDAR is expected to boost blade reliability, by allowing them to cope better with the variable nature of wind and as they can be adjusted ahead of changing conditions, their position can be optimised for maximum efficiency. As the system allows the use of longer blades, it can boost power output by up to five per cent (Energy matters).