Reducing production cost in offshore wind turbine tower design

Master thesis (2021)

Authors

O.B.A. Nekeman Aerospace Engineering

Contributors

M B Zaaijer Wind Energy - Aerospace Engineering (supervisor 1)
D.A. von Terzi Wind Energy - Aerospace Engineering (coach)
J. Sinke Aerospace Manufacturing Technologies - Aerospace Engineering (coach)
Faculty
Aerospace Engineering
Copyright: © 2021 Olaf Nekeman
Wind energy Cost Analysis Cost optimization Wind turbine towers Wind turbine optimization
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Published Date

30-09-2021

Language

English

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Faculty

Aerospace Engineering

Abstract

The objective of the thesis was to evaluate the cost reductions and tower design when production costs are included in the design process of an offshore wind turbine tower. First, a tower cost model had to be developed. Then, based on the findings, a cost optimization model was built with the tower design software from Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy (SGRE). Three scenarios were developed
to mimic different supply chains. The results show that the production costs can be reduced by [0.2, 2%]. Moreover, in each scenario, a different optimum tower design was found. Another study into the optimum number of shells per section showed wind turbine manufacturers could reduce production costs up to 20%.