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Lars Pilgaard Mikkelsen, Mac Gaunaa, Kenneth Thomsen, Philipp Ulrich Haselbach, Hjörtur Jóhannsson, Gregor Giebel, Xiao Chen, Jens Nørkær Sørensen, Katherine Dykes, Jake Badger, Mikael Sjöholm, Cathy Suo, Mike Courtney, Martin Eder, Lena Kitzing, and Xiaoli Guo Larsén

Welcome to the course of Wind Energy. This course gives an overview of key aspects in wind energy engineering. Whether you are looking for general insight in this green technology or your ambition is to pursue a career in wind energy engineering, 'Wind Energy' is an excellent starting point.

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Welcome to the course of Wind Energy. This course gives an overview of key aspects in wind energy engineering. Whether you are looking for general insight in this green technology or your ambition is to pursue a career in wind energy engineering, 'Wind Energy' is an excellent starting point.

Experts located in the wind pioneering country of Denmark will take you on a tour through the most fundamental disciplines of wind energy research such as wind measurements, resource assessment, forecasting, aerodynamics, wind turbine technology, structural mechanics, materials, financial and electrical systems.

You will gain a rational understanding of wind energy engineering and, through hands-on exercises, you will learn to perform wind energy calculations based on simple models. Working with the different course disciplines will give you a taste of what wind energy engineering is all about. This allows you to identify the most interesting or relevant aspects of wind energy engineering to be pursued in your future studies or in your professional career.

View our video: https://youtu.be/he4UWTGHxrY (The video was made for the original version, and it is still highly relevant; a new version will be published soon).

For other professional courses in wind energy engineering, visit our website at www.wem.dtu.dk

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What's inside

Syllabus

About this course
Xiaoli Guo Larsén gives a brief overview of the course, including its overall learning objectives, course structure, course content, the teachers, and the Coursera forum for interactions. You will also see the recommended prerequisites for following the course and find out how to earn points towards your course certificate.
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Wind Energy Economics: Value creation and metrices
Lena Kitzing will teach you about financial aspects during the entire lifetime of a wind turbine. When you have completed the module, you will be able to perform simple calculations for assessing wind farm projects and for calculating the cost of energy from wind.
Introduction to Wind Atlases and the Global Wind Atlas
Jake Badger will explain why assessing wind conditions is important and how features in the landscape affect wind conditions at different scales. You will learn about the Global Wind Atlas and how it can be used to identify flow effects and explore wind climates and resources. Wind atlas validation and data download will also be presented
Wind Farm Design and Optimization
Wind farm design optimization is a key step in overall wind farm project development. Developers need to side what turbines to use, where to place them, and how to design the rest of the system (balance of system including electrical collection system, turbine foundations, and more). This module introduces systems engineering for wind energy applications where holistic optimization methods are used for designing wind farms with the best possible performance at the lowest possible cost – in other words, to achieve a low cost of energy.
Forecasting of Wind Power
Gregor Giebel presents an overview of wind power forecasting, especially the motivation, the typical data flow, some error sources, and some specialised models for other uses than trading bulk power day-ahead. Forecasting wind (and similarly, solar) power in a system with 30% or more of renewables is paramount, and has been used operatively for 30 years. The uncertainty of the weather forecast can be quantified using ensembles, and the error sources depend on the type of forecast. Gregor Giebel in the second video gives an overview of the typical users of forecasts, of the ways to evaluate forecasts which depend (and should depend) highly on the use case, and presents the IEA Wind Recommended Practice for the Implementation of Renewable Energy Forecasting Solutions, which also is used in the test.
How and Why we measure the wind
Mike Courtney tells how and why we perform wind measurements in Wind Energy, including main parameters that are necessary to measure, different instruments and their technologies and functions.
Remote sensing for wind energy
Mikael Sjöholm takes you on a tour to the technology landscape of remote sensing for wind energy starting in part 1 with the basic principles of remote sensing of one wind component using Radar, Lidar, and Sodar. He then continues by describing the differences between pulsed and continuous-wave devices before reaching part 2, where the basic principles for remote sensing of several wind components are reached and some tasters of use-cases for remote sensing in the domain of wind energy are served.
Load measurements on wind turbines
Kenneth Thomsen: Why and how to measure loads on wind turbines? Watch the video and learn the background and the methods!
One-Dimensional Momentum Theory and the Betz Limit for Maximum Power Production
In this lecture Prof. Jens N. Sørensen presents a derivation of the Betz limit, which gives the theoretical upper limit for the power production of a horizontal axis wind turbine. The derivation is based on 1D momentum theory and shows that no more than 59.3% of the available power in the wind can be exploited in the rotor of a wind turbine.
Different Methods and Concepts for Harvesting Wind Energy
In part-1 video, Mac Gaunaa derives models for the ideal power production of simple drag- and lift-driven wind energy extraction devices from first principles analysis. These models reveal the key characteristics of the two different ways of extracting energy from wind, and is used to show which parameters influence the power, and what type of devices have the greatest power production potential per device area. In part-2 video , Mac Gaunaa uses the same set of key elements to explain the main operation principle for four different wind extraction devices: (1) Horizontal axis wind turbine, (2)Vertical axis giromill wind turbine, (3)Vertical axis drag turbine, (4)Ground generation crosswind kite.
Composite Materials for Wind Energy
Lars P. Mikkelsen demonstrates, in the first part of the lecture on composite materials for wind energy, how composite materials are used in wind turbine blades. Non-crimp glass fiber composites and pultruded carbon fiber composites will be introduced and the dominating loads working in a turbine blade will be shown. The second part of the lecture on composite materials for wind energy will show how to predict the stiffness of a composite from the properties of the constituents (fiber and matrix). During this, a big difference between the material stiffness in the fiber direction and transverse to the fiber direction is demonstrated. In the third and last part of the lecture on composite materials for wind energy, a procedure for testing and predicting the lifetime of composite materials is given. This will be used to predict the number of load cycles a composite material is expected to survive when loaded at a certain load-level or reversed which load level is allowed if a certain number of load cycles is required.
Fatigue Phenomenon and Life Prediction
Martin Alexander Eder will in Part 1 teach Fatigue Phenomenon. High cycle fatigue is to date among the most frequent root causes for structural failure in wind turbines which need to endure billions of load cycles during their lifespan. Join me in this video to learn more about the fascinating phenomenon - high cycle fatigue - in wind turbine materials. Let us take an excursion starting at the nanostructure of different materials to observe where fatigue originates and how it evolves by zooming out across the characteristic length scales from micro to macro. This video provides an overview of the fundamental inner workings of the high cycle fatigue phenomenon and the differences observed in metallic materials such as steel and fibre-polymer composite materials, both of which being prominently represented in modern wind turbines. The observations made in this video are the steppingstone for understanding the process of fatigue life predictions presented in the second video – Fatigue life prediction. In part 2, he teaches Fatigue life prediction. It is recommended to watch the first video before embarking on watching fatigue life prediction to connect observation with application. In this video we take the observations made previously and learn how to apply them to make meaningful quantitative predictions of the fatigue life of steels as well as fiber-polymer composite materials. The focus of this video is put on the uniaxial SN-approach as the best-established method in industry. Light is shed on the experimental procedures involved to generate SN-curves and how they are used to generate constant life diagrams.
Blade Testing and Modeling
Xiao Chen introduces structural testing of rotor blades and their subcomponents using state-of-the-art experimental methods including measurements and inspection. In addition, this lecture introduces advanced finite element modeling to predict structural failure and damage where both simulation accuracy and efficiency are highlighted.
Blade design and manufacturing
Phillip Haselbach: The lecture intends on introducing you to the design and manufacturing of wind turbine blade structures. In the lecture Blade Design and Manufacturing you will learn how a typical design procedure of a wind turbine blade structure looks. During the lecture, the iterative design process from the idea to the final product is demonstrated. Moreover, the lecture focusses on the manufacturing process, where the different steps from the design of the moulds to the layup, vacuum infusion process and curing procedure will be explained as well as the final assembly of a wind turbine blade is illustrated.
Introduction to HVDC
Cathy Suo provides introduction to VSC (voltage source converter) technology of HVDC (high voltage direct current) and its application in offshore wind energy
Influence of fluctuating wind speed on system frequency and frequency control
Hjörtur Jóhannsson in the first lecture tells about frequency in electric power systems and how it is controlled. This answers questions: i) what causes system frequency to change? Ii) how to ensure a stable frequency? Iii) how do fluctuations in active power impact the system frequency? In the second lecture he explains the impact that short-term fluctuations in wind speed have on power system frequency. This includes explanations of the role the inertia of the individual wind turbines (WTs) has in reducing the impact of wind fluctuations and explanations of the effect of having numerous WTs in a wind farm in reducing the impact of wind fluctuations in the active power output the wind farm.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Examines wind energy engineering fundamentals, building a foundational and general understanding in students
Provides a rational understanding of wind energy engineering through hands-on exercises and simple models
Taught by experts from DTU, a leading university in wind energy research
Offers a comprehensive overview of key aspects of wind energy engineering, suitable for both general insights and career preparation
Requires a background in mathematics and physics, making it most suitable for students with some technical background

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Reviews summary

Wind energy principles

learners say this course is largely positive for those who want to learn about the fundamentals of wind energy. It offers a thorough overview covering key aspects of this renewable energy source, including its economic viability, design principles, and environmental impact. Engineering concepts are explained clearly with engaging videos and interactive quizzes. While the course assumes some background in mathematics and science, it's accessible to students with a strong interest in the field. Graduates report feeling more confident in their understanding of wind energy and its applications.
This course is well-organized, with each module building on the previous one. The lectures are clear and concise, and the quizzes are challenging but fair.
"This course is well-organized, with each module building on the previous one."
"The lectures are clear and concise, and the quizzes are challenging but fair."
The quizzes and assignments are a great way to test your understanding of the material. They are challenging, but they are also fair.
"The quizzes and assignments are a great way to test your understanding of the material."
The instructors are experts in the field of wind energy. They are passionate about their work and they are eager to share their knowledge with students.
"The instructors are experts in the field of wind energy."
"They are passionate about their work and they are eager to share their knowledge with students."
This course focuses on the practical applications of wind energy. You will learn how to design, install, and maintain wind turbines.
"This course focuses on the practical applications of wind energy."
This course covers a wide range of topics related to wind energy, from the basics of wind turbine design to the economics of wind power.
"This course covers a wide range of topics related to wind energy, from the basics of wind turbine design to the economics of wind power."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Wind Energy with these activities:
Compile useful wind energy resources
Create a personalized collection of valuable resources to enhance your learning and stay updated.
Browse courses on Wind Energy
Show steps
  • Gather articles, videos, and websites on wind energy
  • Organize and categorize the resources
  • Share your compilation with classmates
Review course material with peers
Deepen your understanding by discussing course concepts, exchanging ideas, and learning from others.
Show steps
  • Form a study group with classmates
  • Assign topics for each member to present
  • Meet regularly to discuss the assigned topics
Review 'Wind Energy Handbook'
Build a strong foundation in wind energy by reviewing its most comprehensive reference book.
View Wind Energy Handbook on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read Chapter 1: Introduction
  • Read Chapter 2: Wind Resource Assessment
  • Read Chapter 3: Wind Turbine Technology
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Solve wind turbine power calculations
Reinforce concepts of power generation by practicing calculation of wind turbine power output.
Show steps
  • Identify the formula for wind turbine power
  • Solve 5 practice problems using the formula
  • Check your answers against provided solutions
Monitor and analyze wind turbine data
Develop practical skills in data collection, analysis, and interpretation from real-world wind turbines.
Browse courses on Data Analysis
Show steps
  • Establish data monitoring system
  • Collect and preprocess wind turbine data
  • Analyze data to identify trends and patterns
  • Prepare and present findings
Design a wind turbine blade
Apply your understanding of blade aerodynamics and structural design to create a functional blade.
Show steps
  • Determine blade geometry and materials
  • Model and analyze blade performance using software
  • Document and present your design

Career center

Learners who complete Wind Energy will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Wind Turbine Technician
Wind Turbine Technicians operate and maintain wind turbines and associated systems. They inspect, maintain, and repair wind turbine components, troubleshoot problems, and ensure that the turbines operate at peak efficiency. This course is a comprehensive, valuable overview of Wind Energy Engineering that will assist Wind Turbine Technicians with their daily tasks.
Energy Engineer
Energy Engineers research, design, and implement solutions to improve energy use and reduce emissions. They may specialize in a particular area of energy, such as renewable energy, energy efficiency, or energy conservation. This course's focus on wind energy engineering can help one become an expert in a highly-sought after, specific niche in the field.
Project Manager
Project Managers plan and execute projects. They may specialize in a particular area of project management, such as construction management, engineering management, or information technology management. This course can assist Project Managers who are tasked with managing wind energy projects. Modules such as 'Wind Farm Design and Optimization' are especially relevant to this role.
Civil Engineer
Civil Engineers design, build, and maintain infrastructure projects, such as roads, bridges, and buildings. They may specialize in a particular area of civil engineering, such as structural design, geotechnical engineering, or water resources engineering. This course can introduce Civil Engineers to the topic of wind energy engineering, and will give them a deeper knowledge of a subdiscipline or specialization.
Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical Engineers design, analyze, build, and test a wide range of mechanical devices. They may specialize in a particular area of mechanical engineering, such as energy, materials, or structures. This course can help Mechanical Engineers get a foothold in the growing field of wind energy.
Electrical Engineer
Electrical Engineers design, develop, and test electrical systems and components. They may specialize in a particular area of electrical engineering, such as power systems, lighting, or controls. This course is an excellent overview of wind energy engineering and can help an Electrical Engineer develop specialized knowledge in the field.
Sales Engineer
Sales Engineers sell technical products and services. They may specialize in a particular area of sales engineering, such as software sales engineering, hardware sales engineering, or medical sales engineering. This course can help Sales Engineers get a foundation in the fundamental disciplines of wind energy research, such as wind measurements, resource assessment, forecasting, and structural mechanics.
Materials Scientist
Materials Scientists research, design, and develop new materials. They may specialize in a particular area of materials science, such as metals, ceramics, or polymers. The 'Composites for Wind Energy' module of this course will be of particular interest to Materials Scientists, as they are applied to wind turbine blades.
Data Analyst
Data Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret data. They may specialize in a particular area of data analysis, such as statistical analysis, data mining, or machine learning. This course will help Data Analysts get a foundation in the fundamental disciplines of wind energy research, such as wind measurements, resource assessment, forecasting, and structural mechanics.
Financial Analyst
Financial Analysts research and evaluate investments, and make recommendations on how to invest money. They may specialize in a particular area of financial analysis, such as equity research, credit analysis, or portfolio management. This course can give Financial Analysts with an overview of the financial aspects and implications of wind energy engineering.
Product Manager
Product Managers plan and execute product development. They may specialize in a particular area of product management, such as software product management, hardware product management, or medical product management. This course provides an overview of key aspects of wind energy engineering, and may be useful for a Product Manager who wishes to specialize in managing wind energy products.
Marketing Manager
Marketing Managers plan and execute marketing campaigns. They may specialize in a particular area of marketing, such as digital marketing, social media marketing, or product marketing. This course can give Marketing Managers a good overview of the key aspects of wind energy engineering, as well as the fundamental disciplines of wind energy research such as wind measurements, resource assessment, forecasting, and structural mechanics.
Aerospace Engineer
Aerospace Engineers research, design, and modify aircraft, spacecraft, and missiles. They implement new technologies, materials, and systems to improve performance. The course will introduce students to top research and engineering in the field of wind energy.
Geologist
Geologists study the Earth's materials, structure, and history. They may specialize in a particular area of geology, such as geophysics, paleontology, or environmental geology. This course's overview of key aspects in wind energy engineering, from wind measurements to wind turbine technology, may be useful for a Geologist who wishes to specialize in, or better understand, geology's role in wind energy.
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientists study the environment and its interactions with humans. They may specialize in a particular area of environmental science, such as air quality, water quality, or waste management. This course provides an overview of key aspects of wind energy engineering, and may be useful for an Environmental Scientist interested in researching the environmental implications of wind energy.

Reading list

We've selected 13 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Wind Energy.
A comprehensive reference on wind energy, covering topics such as wind resource assessment, wind turbine design, and wind farm planning.
A textbook that provides a detailed overview of wind turbine technology, including topics such as aerodynamics, structural design, and electrical systems.
A textbook that provides a comprehensive overview of wind power generation and wind turbine design.
A textbook that provides a detailed overview of wind energy, covering topics such as wind resource assessment, wind turbine design, and wind farm planning.
A comprehensive overview of wind power, covering topics such as wind resource assessment, wind turbine design, and wind farm planning.
A comprehensive overview of wind energy conversion systems, covering topics such as wind turbine design, wind farm planning, and wind resource assessment.
A textbook that provides a detailed overview of wind turbine aerodynamics and design.
A comprehensive overview of wind energy, covering topics such as wind resource assessment, wind turbine design, and wind farm planning.
A comprehensive overview of wind energy, covering topics such as wind resource assessment, wind turbine design, and wind farm planning.
A textbook that provides a comprehensive overview of wind engineering, covering topics such as wind loads on structures, wind turbine design, and wind farm planning.
A textbook that provides a detailed overview of wind turbine dynamics and stability.
A textbook that provides a comprehensive overview of wind energy meteorology, covering topics such as wind resource assessment, wind turbine siting, and wind farm planning.

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