Home
certification-for-wind-energy-performance-monitoring-systems

Certification for Wind Energy Performance Monitoring Systems

Certification for Wind Energy Performance Monitoring Systems: Ensuring Accuracy and Reliability

The wind energy industry has experienced significant growth in recent years, driven by increasing concerns about climate change and the need for renewable energy sources. As the demand for wind power continues to rise, the importance of accurate performance monitoring systems (PMS) becomes more critical. A reliable PMS is essential for optimizing turbine efficiency, reducing costs, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.

Certification plays a vital role in verifying the accuracy and reliability of wind energy PMS. In this article, we will explore the importance of certification for wind energy PMS, the various certification standards available, and the benefits of obtaining certification.

Understanding Wind Energy Performance Monitoring Systems

A wind energy PMS typically consists of several components, including:

  • Anemometers: Measure wind speed, direction, and turbulence intensity

  • Wind vanes: Determine wind direction and orientation

  • Barometers: Record atmospheric pressure

  • Temperature sensors: Monitor temperature fluctuations

  • Data loggers: Store and transmit data to the control center or remote monitoring systems


  • Key Features of a Wind Energy PMS:

    Accuracy: Wind energy PMS must accurately measure and record wind speeds, directions, and other environmental parameters to ensure optimal turbine performance.
    Reliability: The system should be able to operate continuously without interruptions or errors, providing real-time data for analysis and decision-making.
    Data integrity: The accuracy of the data collected by the PMS is essential for making informed decisions about turbine maintenance, repair, and optimization.

    Certification Standards for Wind Energy Performance Monitoring Systems

    Several certification standards are available for wind energy PMS, including:

  • IEC 61400-12-1:2005: Specifies requirements for on-shore wind turbines regarding measuring instruments for mechanical and acoustical properties

  • ISO/TS 15016:2018: Provides guidelines for the evaluation of the accuracy of anemometers used in wind energy applications

  • ASTM E1057-17: Establishes a standard test method for evaluating the performance characteristics of anemometers


  • Benefits of Certification

    Obtaining certification for wind energy PMS offers numerous benefits, including:

  • Improved accuracy and reliability: Certification ensures that the system meets strict standards for accuracy and reliability

  • Enhanced credibility: Certified systems are more likely to be accepted by regulatory bodies and turbine manufacturers

  • Reduced maintenance costs: A certified system can help reduce maintenance costs by minimizing downtime and optimizing performance


  • QA Section

    1. What is the purpose of certification for wind energy PMS?
    Certification verifies that the system meets strict standards for accuracy, reliability, and data integrity.

    2. Which organizations offer certification for wind energy PMS?
    Several organizations offer certification, including TÜV Rheinland, SGS, and Intertek.

    3. What is the difference between IEC 61400-12-1 and ISO/TS 15016:2018?
    IEC 61400-12-1 specifies requirements for on-shore wind turbines regarding measuring instruments, while ISO/TS 15016:2018 provides guidelines for evaluating anemometer accuracy.

    4. Can a system be certified under multiple standards?
    Yes, a system can be certified under multiple standards, but the certification process may require additional testing and evaluation.

    5. How often should wind energy PMS be calibrated or updated?
    The frequency of calibration or update depends on various factors, including environmental conditions and usage patterns.

    6. Can a non-certified system affect turbine performance or safety?
    Yes, a non-certified system can compromise turbine performance and safety by providing inaccurate data or failing to meet regulatory requirements.

    7. What is the cost of certification for wind energy PMS?
    The cost of certification varies depending on the standard, organization, and complexity of the system.

    8. How does certification affect warranty and liability issues?
    Certification can impact warranty and liability issues by providing evidence that the system meets strict standards for accuracy and reliability.

    9. Can a certified system be used in multiple locations or applications?
    Yes, a certified system can be used in multiple locations or applications, but it may require additional testing and evaluation to ensure compliance with local regulations.

    10. What is the typical certification process for wind energy PMS?
    The certification process typically involves laboratory testing, field testing, and documentation review, followed by a site visit and audit.

    Conclusion

    Certification for wind energy performance monitoring systems is essential for ensuring accuracy, reliability, and data integrity. By understanding the various certification standards available and the benefits of obtaining certification, wind energy developers, operators, and manufacturers can optimize turbine performance, reduce costs, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.

    DRIVING INNOVATION, DELIVERING EXCELLENCE