Fundamentals of Wind Power, Rotor Design, and Wind Park Planning
13 Enrollments Level : IntermediateRelevance
The accelerating global shift toward decarbonization places wind energy at the forefront of renewable power generation. With increasing demand for sustainable, scalable, and efficient energy sources, wind turbines have become a pivotal technology.
This course provides a structured path from foundational concepts in atmospheric dynamics and rotor aerodynamics to advanced wind park planning using simulation tools such as windPRO. Understanding wind behavior, rotor blade optimization, and site evaluation is essential for engineers involved in planning and implementing wind energy systems that meet performance, safety, and regulatory requirements. The course combines theoretical foundations with applied skills to prepare students for careers in wind energy engineering, rotor design, and simulation-based wind park development.
Abstract
This course delivers a comprehensive overview of wind energy systems, spanning wind formation, rotor blade dynamics, and wind park layout. It begins with the physics of wind generation and power extraction, including Betz Law and the Weibull distribution.
Students’ progress through advanced topics in rotor blade design, aerodynamic forces, and structural mechanics using Blade Element Theory. The course culminates in practical wind park design using windPRO, incorporating wind resource analysis, noise and shadow impact simulations, and energy yield calculations. Interactive materials including video lectures, self-assessments, and simulation tasks ensure both theoretical grounding and practical competence. By the end of the course, participants will have a deep understanding of how power electronics facilitate the efficient harvesting and utilization of solar and wind energy, positioning them to contribute effectively to the advancement of sustainable energy technologies.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, students will be able to:
· Describe atmospheric circulation systems and wind resource modeling.
· Apply Betz Law and Impulse Theory to calculate theoretical wind power limits.
· Use Weibull distribution and wind profile equations for wind speed estimation.
· Understand aerodynamic principles of rotor blades and apply Blade Element Theory.
· Analyze structural and design considerations of rotor blades.
· Use windPRO to perform site assessment, simulate energy yield, and optimize turbine layout.
· Evaluate noise and shadow impacts in compliance with environmental regulations.
Prior Knowledge
1. Fundamentals of renewable energy systems
2. Basic Physics
Mathematics (algebra, calculus, statistics)