Optimisation of Highly Efficient Composite Blades for Retrofitting Existing Wind Turbines

Currently, wind energy, a reliable, affordable, and clean energy source, contributes to 16% of Europe’s electricity. A typical modern turbine design lifespan is 20 years. In European Union countries, the number turbines reaching years or older will become significant beyond 2025. This research study presents methodology aiming upgrade rotor blades for existing extend life. employs blade element momentum theory, finite analysis, genetic algorithm, direct screen methods optimise external geometry structural design, with main objective increase power capture efficiency enhance its performance. Meanwhile, compatibility between considered during optimisation. By applying this 225 kW turbine, an optimal blade, which compatible hub, proposed assistance physical testing data. The optimised benefits from high-performance carbon-fibre composite material layup optimisation, has reduced tip deflection self-weight 48% 31%, respectively, resulting in reduction resources, while improving addition, there improvement production approximately 10.5% at speed 11 m/s, results over 4.2% average annual compared without changing length. Furthermore, advanced aero-elastic-based simulation conducted ensure changes made can guarantee operation life least years, equivalent that reference blade.