An Energy Storage Dimensioning Tool for Wind Farms
Wind Farm
The tool was designed to help wind farm operators determine the feasibility of integrating energy storage systems into their wind farms. Wind farms often face curtailment, where excess energy generated by wind turbines cannot be utilized or stored, leading to revenue losses. This tool addresses the need to optimize energy storage integration, allowing operators to store curtailed energy and sell it later when prices are more favorable.
The project involved developing a comprehensive mathematical model that analyzed power profiles from wind farms, considering technical constraints such as storage capacity, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. The model explored various storage technologies, including their charging and discharging characteristics, response times, and costs. The tool provides a set of optimal storage configurations based on the unique needs of each wind farm.
In addition to assessing the technical feasibility, the tool includes an economic evaluation, helping operators determine whether investing in energy storage would be profitable. By analyzing both CAPEX and OPEX, as well as potential revenue from energy sales, it ensures that all financial aspects are considered. The result is not just a simple yes or no but an in-depth analysis of the ideal storage technology, size, and operational strategy.
One of the most valuable features of this tool is its scalability. Wind farm operators can apply it across multiple sites, automatically adjusting to different wind farm configurations and power profiles. This scalability enhances the tool’s applicability across a wide range of scenarios, making it a valuable asset for operators managing multiple wind farms.
Moreover, the tool can be commercialized as a service. Operators can offer the dimensioning service to other wind farm owners, creating an additional revenue stream while optimizing their own energy storage systems. This dual function of the tool increases its overall value and market potential.
Finally, the tool’s advanced integration capabilities ensure smooth data exchange with existing systems. Developed with Python and incorporating linear programming and optimization algorithms, the tool is computationally efficient and capable of handling large datasets.