“Forested areas are an under utilised wind resource”, says TÜV SÜD

Munich / Barcelona - At EWEA 2014 in Barcelona, TÜV SÜD will showcase the result of an important research project together with its full scope of wind energy products and services (Booth 7B100).

The findings of the extensive research project underline a significant European market shift, that demonstrates a need for improved forecasts and standardised measurements within previously under utilised wind power locations. “A number of early-stage projects have appeared within forest areas in some European countries and their success has encouraged others to follow suit”, said Peter-Herbert Meier, head of the Wind Cert Services Unit of TÜV SÜD Industrie Service GmbH. “However, since modelling data associated with these notoriously difficult to reach sites is often limited, there is a growing demand for investors and operators for more robust, qualitative and quantitative research.”

As part of the two-year research programme, initiated in partnership with Natural Energy Solutions (NES), in October 2012, TÜV SÜD erected a 140-metre research mast to measure wind conditions in a mountainous German forest. Although simulations and forecasts had previously provided information and data to assist in the search for a profitable wind farm size, the construction of the mast delivered standardised measurements and strengthened exisiting topographical understanding, to better shape and define 2D and 3D models. “We are positively surprised by our evaluation of the data delivered form the measurements so far”, said Meier. Wind speed proved to be stronger than had predicted from preliminary simulations and data.

“As the forestry research initiative demonstrates, a topographically complex geography is no longer a significant barrier to future commercial growth”, added Alan Chivers, Chairman, TÜV SÜD PMSS.

Since the acquisition of PMSS by TÜV SÜD in 2012, the division has significantly extended its service portfolio for renewable energy technologies. The global team of PMSS works directly with clients in areas including development strategy, due diligence, environment and permitting, safety and risk management and engineering and construction. Increasingly, the work of PMSS requires providing consultancy and advice for developers working in hostile environments and climates.

For over twenty years TÜV SÜD PMSS has delivered offshore wind projects across Europe, Asia-Pacific and North America working for governments, project developers, OEMs, utilities, banks, institutional investors, insurers and other stakeholders.

For more information on TÜV SÜD's services in this area, visit www.tuv-sud.com/windenergy and www.tuv-sud.co.uk/pmss.