Global energy expert, DNV GL, has approved the Fulcrum3D Sodar for bankable wind energy assessments.

Based on over 20 comparisons with conventional met masts up to 120m, this underlines the excellent accuracy of the unique Fulcrum3D design in the Fulcrum3D Sodar.

Yesterday, DNV GL published a position statement describing the conclusions on reviewing detailed data captured using the Fulcrum3D Sodar. It stated:

  • DNV GL considers that the Fulcrum3D system may be considered to have achieved Milestone 1 and is within Stage 2 for benign conditions.
  • The information reviewed by DNV GL demonstrates that, for benign conditions, the device performs consistently with height and across the range of heights applicable for wind energy applications and
  • DNV GL considers that data recorded using the Fulcrum3D device may be used in a quantitative sense with reasonable error bars within a formal wind speed and energy assessment.

“DNV GL is one of the premier consultants for the wind energy industry. Having their tick of approval for use of the Fulcrum3D Sodar data in bankable wind energy assessments is a significant milestone,” said Fulcrum3D Director Andrew Durran.

The assessment followed a verification carried out by DNV GL in Germany of a validation test carried out by Fulcrum3D at a 100m mast in northern Spain.  In that analysis, DNV GL stated:

  • The Fulcrum3D Sodar…is able to reproduce cup anemometer wind speeds add wind vane directions at a very accurate level.
  • DNV GL considers that for little to moderately complex terrain sites data from the Fulcrum3D Sodar device may be used in a quantitative sense.
  • Wind speed correlation R2 between 0.989 to 0.995, wind speed correlation slope from 0.989 to 1.005 and wind speed bias from -1.3 to 0.2%.

“The level of performance achieved at this most recent site in Spain is good for any terrain type but even better given the site complexity. We are pleased to have matched the mast so closely on both wind speed magnitude and correlation in site conditions where other remote sensing technologies have struggled to perform strongly.”

“DNV GL’s conclusions demonstrate that our unique design specific for real wind farm sites produces highly accurate data. Our customers will now be able to use the Fulcrum3D Sodar with confidence knowing that DNV GL has a strong position on its use and that it can add significant value to their wind farm sites by facilitating financial grade wind energy assessments,” Durran added.