Energy Production and Distribution
Wind Energy
Safe support structures combined with high-tech mechanical engineering to generate sustainable energies
Wind energy is one of the key technologies for the power generation of the future. Switzerland has therefore committed itself to a massive expansion of wind energy.
Wind energy on a global scale
Wind energy is a renewable and sustainable form of energy with great potential for development worldwide. Wind farms are generally concentrated in areas with more regular winds, such as coastal regions, the Rocky Mountains or Inner Mongolia, allowing for cost-effective electricity production. However, the uneven distribution of wind power in these regions can cause grid problems if adequate transmission infrastructure is not in place to accommodate it. Despite these challenges, the maximum potential for wind power worldwide is estimated at between 18 and 34 TW with improved regulation and infrastructure.
By harnessing this potential, wind energy can provide a clean and reliable alternative to traditional energy sources. It is an important part of the transition to renewable energy sources and can play an important role in reducing global greenhouse gas emissions.
With its potential for significant cost savings and environmental benefits, wind energy is an attractive option for many countries in terms of sustainable energy development. With improved legislation and infrastructure, this form of renewable energy has great potential to be exploited worldwide. Ultimately, wind energy can offer a viable solution that supports long-term economic growth while protecting public health and environmental sustainability.
What are the solutions to overcome the intermittency problems of wind power?
Proponents of renewable energy see the energy mix, combining wind, solar and geothermal energy, energy storage and energy saving as solutions to overcome the intermittency problems of wind energy. For example, a combination of the two intermittent energies, wind and solar, and the two non-intermittent energies, hydro and biogas, to store energy in case of surplus, to take over in the absence of wind or sun and to compensate. One method of harnessing and storing excess production from wind turbines is to couple them with pumped storage techniques. In addition, other methods include transformations such as using wind turbines to produce compressed air instead of electricity, condensing water vapour from ambient air, producing methane from excess wind turbine output and storing electricity in volcanic rock covered with insulating material.
How could the combination of several renewable sources of electricity solve the problems of intermittency?
Combining multiple renewable sources of electricity such as wind, solar and geothermal energy with energy storage and conservation can help overcome intermittency problems. By combining two intermittent energies (wind and solar) with two non-intermittent energies (hydro and biogas), it is possible to store energy when there is a surplus, to make up for a lack of wind or sun when needed, and to compensate for it when necessary.
What is pumped storage and how does it relate to wind energy?
Pumped storage is a method of using the excess electricity produced by wind turbines to store potential energy in the form of water. This stored energy can then be released when needed, for example during periods of low wind, providing a reliable source of electricity.
What other methods are there for storing excess production from wind turbines?
Other methods of storing excess output from wind turbines include transformations such as producing compressed air instead of electricity, condensing water vapour from ambient air, producing methane from excess energy and storing electricity in volcanic tanks.
Why choose Gruner as an engineer for your wind energy projects?
Gruner is an engineering company dedicated to providing the highest quality design and consultancy services for wind energy projects. Our team of qualified engineers has extensive experience in wind energy systems. Our geotechnical and mechanical engineering expertise ensures that every wind energy project we work on is designed and built to withstand the natural forces of its environment. We understand the importance of maximising efficiency while minimising environmental impact, and we use our knowledge and experience to develop innovative solutions.
In addition to official approval and cantonal and municipal consent, the realization of wind turbines also involves major technical challenges. Sites for wind turbines are usually located in exposed locations with good aerodynamic properties, which, however, place high demands on the foundation and structure of the turbines.
Energy plants are investments in the future. As a general planner, we are your partner for all technical matters as well as for ecological and business management issues. With our expertise and experience, we are happy to support the realization of these forward-looking projects.