Measured and Predicted Rotor Performance for the SERI Advanced Wind Turbine Blades

Measured and predicted rotor performance for the SERI advanced wind turbine blades were compared to assess the accuracy of predictions and to identify the sources of error affecting both predictions and measurements. An awareness of these sources of error contributes to improved prediction and measurement methods that will ultimately benefit future rotor design efforts. Propeller/vane anemometerswere found to underestimate the wind speed in turbulent environments such as the San Gorgonio Pass wind farm area. Using sonic or cup anemometers good agreement was achieved between predicted and measured power output for wind speeds up to 8 m/sec. At higher wind speeds, an optimistic predicted power output and the occurrence of peak power at wind speeds lower than measurements resulted from theomission of turbulence and yaw error.