Wind resource measurement: The key to your project’s success
Wind resource measurement is a fundamental step in the success of any wind energy project, whether it is a large wind farm or a smaller installation. This process, which involves assessing the wind potential at a specific location, is crucial for making informed decisions and ensuring that the investment is profitable.
What is wind resource measurement and what is it used for?
Wind resource measurement is the process of assessing the quality and energy potential of the wind at a given site. Essentially, it involves determining the availability of the raw material for the future wind farm, which is wind. To do this, detailed data is collected on wind speed, direction, density, and frequency, among other factors.
This study helps us determine the viability of a project. If the wind in a specific area is not suitable, the installation of wind turbines would not be economically viable, or their performance may vary depending on the factors analyzed. In addition, this data allows for optimal park design. It is not the same to place a wind turbine on a plain as it is on a hill or in an area with obstacles.
Although developers and energy companies have equipment that performs a preliminary analysis or simulation to study the optimal placement, these measurements remain the only way to obtain real data in the field with which to be certain.
Con esta información, y tras su análisis, los ingenieros pueden ubicar cada turbina en el punto exacto para maximizar la producción de energía y minimizar los costes.
Una vez instalado el parque, la medición del recurso eólico sigue siendo útil. Ayuda a predecir la producción de energía y a optimizar el rendimiento del parque a lo largo del tiempo, asegurando que las turbinas funcionen de la manera más eficiente posible.
Tools and techniques for measurement
Various tools and technologies are used to obtain reliable data. Measurement towers are tall, sturdy metal structures equipped with measuring instruments at different heights, determined mainly by the terrain, the prevailing wind currents in the area, and the height of the future generators.
The most common are anemometers, which measure wind speed, and wind vanes, which indicate wind direction. They may also include temperature, humidity, and atmospheric pressure sensors to provide a complete picture of the local climate.
Another more recent measurement system is LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging). This detection technology uses laser pulses to measure wind speed and direction at various heights, without the need for a physical tower. It is a very flexible option, especially useful in areas that are difficult to access. Similarly, SoDAR (Sound Detection and Ranging) uses sound waves instead of lasers to take measurements.
Both LiDAR and SoDAR technologies are complementary options to towers and allow for a complete wind profile of the area to be obtained at a lower implementation cost. They also allow for faster relocation to other points. However, they are expensive pieces of equipment and their handling and control requires extensive knowledge and care.
Of course, measurement is not limited to data collection. Once the data has been obtained, a comprehensive data analysis is performed, including wind flow modeling, taking into account factors such as terrain, nearby obstacles, and surface roughness, to accurately estimate the wind potential of the site using advanced analysis and simulation systems.
The measurement process, step by step
The wind resource measurement campaign follows a rigorous methodology to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the results. In the planning stage, a preliminary study of the site is carried out. Here, the installation points for the measurement towers or LiDAR/SoDAR equipment are defined, taking into account the complexity of the terrain, accessibility, and other factors that could influence wind flow.
The measurement campaign then begins. The equipment is installed and data is collected continuously. For the results to be representative, this campaign usually lasts at least one year, although in many projects it is extended for longer to capture seasonal variations in wind and obtain a more robust and reliable data set. You can consult the UNE-EN 61400-12-1 standard, which establishes the requirements for measuring the power of wind turbines.
Once the data has been collected, the analysis is carried out. The collected data is evaluated, possible errors are removed, and the wind flow is modeled to calculate the energy that could be generated. Finally, a detailed report is prepared, including the measurement results, a feasibility analysis of the project, and conclusions to support the final decision-making process.
At Lasser Eólica, we are experts in engineering solutions and the installation of renewable energy projects, including the wind resource measurement phase. Our highly qualified team is responsible for the installation and maintenance of measurement systems, ensuring data reliability and the success of your project.
We also offer structural calculation services, consulting, equipment maintenance, and custom manufacturing. If you need trustworthy advice for your wind energy project, don’t hesitate to contact us at 900 321 111 or at (+34) 976 463 205 for international inquiries.
Experts in wind measurement structures and sensors in Spain and Europe. Lasser Eólica is a division of 
