A survey of modelling methods for high-fidelity wind farm simulations using large eddy simulation

Area of Science:

• Fluid dynamics
• Renewable energy engineering
• Computational science

Background:

• Large eddy simulations (LES) are increasingly used for analyzing wind turbine wakes.
• Advancements in LES codes necessitate updated models for various physical effects.
• The wind energy sector requires high-fidelity simulations for optimal performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review common modeling schemes for LES of wind farms.
• To summarize available experimental data for LES code validation.
• To present best practices for high-fidelity LES in complex terrains.

Main Methods:

• Survey of state-of-the-art LES codes.
• Modeling of rotor, atmospheric, and terrain effects.
• Review of experimental validation data for single and multiple wakes.

Main Results:

• An overview of current LES modeling schemes is provided.
• Experimental data for LES validation is summarized.
• Illustrative results demonstrate LES application in diverse conditions.

Conclusions:

• LES is a powerful tool for wind farm flow dynamics.
• Accurate modeling of physical effects is crucial for LES fidelity.
• Best practices are essential for reliable wind farm simulations.