New Book Explains Meteorology for Wind Energy Professionals

Dr. Lars Landberg, a meteorologist at DNV GL, has written a book that will help non-meteorologists understand the critical concepts that underpin wind energy technology and project success.

The fundamentals of meteorology dictate the success or failure of wind projects, says Dr Landberg, yet many of the industry’s decision makers lack a ready resource for understanding the important theoretical concepts they need.

A wind turbine spins as clouds gather overhead. Credit: Monty Rakusen/Photodisc/Getty Images

“In Meteorology for Wind Energy: An Introduction, I have focused on the requirements of the industry, explaining the important concepts that are directly relevant to commercial projects. This focus makes learning easier and quicker – there’s no need to wade through large, generic texts trying to determine what is really relevant to the practical application of meteorology,” he explains.

Dr. Landberg draws on over 25 years of experience as a scientist, consultant and trainer in the wind energy sector to give readers an understanding of weather and the data analysis and prediction tools used to understand it. The 224-page book starts with an explanation of how wind forms and how it is measured. Wind properties such as flow at all atmospheric scales, turbulence and wakes are examined, followed by a discussion on modeling, its resolution and accuracy.

“In all cases, the reader is led through very simple concepts to more advanced theories with the use of examples. The theoretical explanations and practical guidance given make the book a reference text for developers, equipment manufacturers, consultants and project managers,” says Landberg.

Meteorology for Wind Energy: An Introduction is published by Wiley and was launched at the annual European Wind Energy conference in Paris today – November 18th.

Per Wiggo Richardsen, Communications Director, DNV GL Research and Innovation