Distributed wind turbine generator system structure

What is a distributed wind turbine?

Wind turbines used as a distributed energy resource—known as distributed wind —are connected at the distribution level of an electricity delivery system (or in off-grid applications) to serve on-site energy demand or support operation of local electricity distribution networks.

What is a distributed wind energy installation?

A distributed wind energy installation is defined by its technology application, not its size, and is typically smaller than 20 MW. This type of installation is explained in this animation and illustrates how a turbine at a residential home can offset its energy usage.

How do wind turbines help communities?

Established wind turbine manufacturers and improved technology help support distributed wind energy’s role in facilitating energy transitions for communities. A Skystream 3.7 wind turbine at Allegheny High School in North Carolina. Photo by Brent Summerville, National Renewable Energy Laboratory

How do distributed wind systems work?

Distributed wind systems are connected on the customer side of the meter to meet the onsite load or directly to distribution or microgrids. A new study indicates that nearly 1,400 gigawatts of distributed wind capacity could be profitably deployed today across the United States.

What is the difference between upwind and downwind turbines?

Upwind turbines—like the one shown here—face into the wind while downwind turbines face away. Most utility-scale land-based wind turbines are upwind turbines. The wind vane measures wind direction and communicates with the yaw drive to orient the turbine properly with respect to the wind.

How does a turbine drive a generator?

Part of the turbine's drivetrain, the main bearing supports the rotating low-speed shaft and reduces friction between moving parts so that the forces from the rotor don't damage the shaft. Part of the turbine's drivetrain, the high-speed shaft connects to the gearbox and drives the generator.