Linear Wind Farm Layout Optimization through Computational Intelligence

Abstract

The optimal positioning of wind turbines, even in one dimension, is a problem with no analytical solution. This article describes the application of computational intelligence techniques to solve this problem. A systematic analysis of the optimal positioning of wind turbines on a straight line, on flat terrain, and considering wake effects has been conducted using both simulated annealing and genetic algorithms. Free parameters were the number of wind turbines, the distances between wind turbines and wind turbine hub heights. Climate and terrain characteristics were varied, like incoming wind speed, wind direction, air density, and surface roughness length, producing different patterns of positioning. Analytical functions were used to model wake effects quantifying the reduction in speed after the wind passes through a wind turbine. Conclusions relevant to the placement of wind turbines for several cases are presented.