Assessing the influence of lightweight generators on substructure cost and levelized cost of energy: a techno-economic model for large offshore wind turbines

Abstract It is expected that lightweight drive train systems for large wind turbines can reduce overall levelized cost of energy (LCOE) compared to conventional designs, particularly through a less robust and therefore lower-cost turbine substructure. Representing major share mass, the focus mass reduction efforts concentrate on generator. In order assess influence specific generator designs LCOE, techno-economic software tool was created which feeds into LCOE calculation design capital expenditure (CAPEX) an appropriate A case study carried out, comparing direct featuring permanent magnet with ring architecture diameter—resulting in significantly low CAPEX—to reference design. The results show relevant could be achieved, but substructure consequently CAPEX are highly disproportionate due technical constraints. indicated assessed has high potential economize decisions its consequence even further.