Optimization of Vertical Axis Wind Turbine Farm Parameters for Enhanced Power Generation Efficiency

This research focuses on optimising 3D-printed Vertical Axis Wind Turbines (VAWTs) to enhance power output efficiency and, in turn, cost-effectiveness. VAWTs can make use of multi-directional winds, unlike Horizontal Axis Wind Turbines(HAWTs), making them suitable for urban and off-shore applications. Moreover, VAWTs operate with fewer moving parts, allowing for easier maintenance and lesser noise than HAWTs. However, wake effects and turbulence will reduce power efficiency, so a great deal of precise design and layout optimisation is required to capture maximum energy. The work investigates the performance of up-scaled N20 motors for energy conversion from wind using the Savonius VAWT with different Length/Diameter ratios. Various configurations of turbines were tested in a controlled environment, and then the voltage output was measured and converted to power using a standard formula. The best results were observed with the configuration consisting of 22 turbines with L/D ratio: 3.333, which produced a power output of 8.778 W. It was found that the relationship in L/D ratio, number of turbines, and power generated is a non-linear relationship, which shows that configuration is of utmost importance for maximum efficiency. One of the principal difficulties with VAWTs is the wake effect and turbulence, which adversely affect power efficiency [1]. Optimized VAWT farms can reduce both installation and maintenance costs and thus present a viable alternative for renewable energy systems. Hence, this study is based on designs of cost-effective, highly efficient VAWT systems that provide better power density for producing sustainable energy.