Systems and Controls Analysis

As today's utility-scale wind turbines become taller and more flexible, NREL researchers are investigating ways to mitigate system fatigue by gaining better control of the way the components interact and move. NREL conducts systems and controls research to increase energy capture and reduce structural loading for minimal cost. By studying conventional turbine component controls such as blade pitching, new components such as twist-coupled blades, and advanced devices such as micro-tabs, researchers are developing innovative hub control strategies to mitigate unwanted aerodynamic loads at the rotor hub and investigating ways to improve design codes. NREL's Controls Advanced Research Turbine at the National Wind Technology Center is one of the valuable tools that researchers use to analyze diverse control schemes and help industry develop advanced control systems.