GE will install its WindCONTROL software to help maximize energy output at two First Wind projects in Maine, a total of 95 GE wind turbines. The software will regulate curtailment by monitoring and controlling the wind turbines’ ramp rates, effectively easing power spikes, and putting less strain on the turbine as compared to constant starts and stops. First Wind, a Boston-based independent wind energy company, owns and operates turbines throughout the U.S.
“The effect of curtailment on wind turbines has been a concern to us. Applying WindCONTROL to our wind turbines in Maine will help the units maximize energy capture while mitigating the strain on our units as we regulate power production,” said First Wind’s Vice President of Operations EJ Martin.
The wind controls will let turbine owners earn back power that may have been lost due to inefficient conventional methods for meeting curtailment. The software controls the output of each wind turbine in the wind farm, versus an approach that depends on starting or stopping units to meet a power demand. The more precise regulation of power allows meeting grid requirements despite wind variations, and it lets the turbines run more efficiently and reliably. Avoiding the continual stopping and starting of turbines for power regulation, lets the control tactic eases the stresses on the wind turbines and helps extend the life of their components.
The two Maine-based wind farms that will be refit with the software are located in Rollins and Stetson. The Rollins site has 40 GE 1.5-77 turbines while Stetson contains 55 1.5-77 turbines.
Filed Under: News, O&M, Projects
