A Comparison of Wind Power Production with Three Different De- and Anti-Icing Systems

Abstract: This thesis is done within the master program in energy systems engineering at Uppsala University and in cooperation with OX2. The aim was to compare the operation and performance of three different de- and anti-icing systems for wind turbines during the winter 2014/2015. The systems evaluated were de-icing with heating resistances, de-icing with warm air and anti-icing with heating resistances. Inconsistency in the operation of the wind turbines and the systems as well as lack of information made it hard to compare the efficiencies of the systems. The systems showed tendencies to improve the production. Especially examples during single ice events where the systems increased the power output were found, but the examples also showed possible improvements regarding the size of the systems and the duration of the de-or anti-icing cycles. Based on the approximated gain in production, during the studied time period, none of the systems could be determined to be profitable. The gain in production does however not have to be especially large for the systems to become profitable, and the results could be very different in a year with more ice, higher electricity prices or a more consistent operation of the systems. Important characteristics of the systems were found to be the duration of a cycle, the energy required for the operation of the system and the trigger-point for activation of the system. Additional benefits like for instance decreased loads, risk for standstill and ice throws could also be provided by the system.