How efficient is wind energy production?

Electricity losses amount to 27% of the maximal producible electricity. This article examines the efficiency of wind energy production. Using non-convex efficiency analysis, we quantify production losses for 19 wind turbines in four wind parks across Germany.

How much do wind turbines lose a year?

Wind turbines are found to lose 1.6 ± 0.2% of their output per year, with average load factors declining from 28.5% when new to 21% at age 19. This trend is consistent for different generations of turbine design and individual wind farms.

Do wind turbine load factors decline with age?

By accounting for individual site conditions we confirm that load factors do decline with age, at a similar rate to other rotating machinery. Wind turbines are found to lose 1.6 ± 0.2% of their output per year, with average load factors declining from 28.5% when new to 21% at age 19.

How do offshore wind farms affect power generation efficiency?

With increasing size and clustering, offshore wind farms (OWFs) wake effects, which alter wind conditions and decrease the power generation efficiency of wind farms downwind become more important.

What is the average decline rate of wind turbines?

This decline rate appears stable until 2002, after which it reduces for more recently commissioned turbines. Farms built before 2003 have an average decline rate of −0.49 ± 0.05 points per year, whereas those built afterwards average −0.16 ± 0.08.

Why do wind farms lose output a decade?

Onshore wind farm output falls 16% a decade, possibly due to availability and wear. Performance decline with age is seen in all farms and all generations of turbines. Decreasing output over a farm's life increases the levelised cost of electricity. Ageing is a fact of life.