AI firm to provide performance analytics for GE wind turbines

Artificial intelligence (AI) and internet of things (IoT) startup, mCloud, announced a deal to provide performance analytics for 35 GE wind turbines. Leveraging data from hundreds of turbine sensors, mCloud says it will apply its proprietary AI analytics solution to predict annual energy production and turbine longevity, enhancing output while reducing operations and maintenance (O&M) costs.

AssetCare will initially be used to assess and optimize the condition and performance of wind-turbine pitch systems and batteries for the GE turbines at Longyuan’s Pu Fa Wind Farm in China. Longyuan is the largest wind-power producer in Asia.

This agreement is the start of what is expected to be a multi-phase relationship with Longyuan.

“We look forward to demonstrating the power of AssetCare to Longyuan and helping them maximize the performance of their wind turbine fleet,” said Dave Weinerth, mCloud president, Smart Energy. “By connecting these wind turbines to our AI and analytics capabilities, we are confident we will discover how to achieve better performance for these wind turbines, positioning AssetCare for more turbines in their portfolio.”

Using historical performance data for these wind turbines, AssetCare will apply its AI and analytics to evaluate numerous pitch parameters including motor temperature, position, current, and torque, along with performance variables such as wind speed, power output, and turbine mode. By detecting excessive rotational force or control system issues, AssetCare can predict impacts to annual energy production and turbine longevity.

Improving wind energy production while reducing costs associated with O&M AssetCare will increase Longyuan’s profitability per MWh, according to mCloud.

“The World Wind Energy Association estimates China has approximately one-third of the world’s total installed wind capacity and, with over 19,000 MW, Longyuan is China’s largest wind-farm developer and operator,” Weinerth added.