/WIND TECHNOLOGY
/WIND FARMS
Wind farms
It is normal practice, to harness the maximum wind force and obtain greater quantities of energy, to group wind turbines in wind farms. The turbines are separated from each other in these parks by a minimum distance of three times the diameter of the rotor and a maximum of nine times this diameter, in order to avoid wind turbulence and make it easier to connect the wind turbines to the electricity grid.
When evaluating a potential wind farm site, the ground conditions have to be taken into account, such as unevenness, the existence of obstacles and the area's orography, so that the best return possible is achieved.
Uneven ground reduces wind speed, while obstacles (such as trees or buildings) and outcrops cause turbulence, which has a negative effect on the wind harnessed for electricity generation. These factors also cause wind turbines to wear faster.
Making good use of an area’s orography is, on the other hand, imbued with advantages and improved performance. Thus, a good option is to site turbines in tunnels between, for example, two rock outcrops, where the wind speed is greater. Wind farms are also frequently installed on hilltops since the wind speed is greater at higher altitudes.