Shell and Whiffle co-operate to deliver accurate weather forecasts for wind farms

Shell has partnered with Whiffle, a Dutch start-up, to use their software to determine the expected output of its wind parks.

Shell is building almost seventy wind turbines in the new Hollandse Kust Noord wind park, which is situated more than eighteen kilometres off the coast of Egmond aan Zee. Whiffle uses smart technology from the gaming world to produce unbeatably accurate weather predictions. It incorporates all environmental factors into its software, including cloud cover, precipitation and even buildings. By using Whiffle’s software, Shell can determine the weather forecast in blocks of fifty by fifty metres.

Whiffle’s simulations are unique, as it programs them as game graphics, giving it extra calculating power and enabling it to make simulations in real-time. The two-year cooperation program between Shell and Whiffle will allow the latter to develop its accurate weather forecasts further. Shell and Eneco, the owner of the wind park, will know exactly what a meticulous business it is to locate turbines at the right distance from each other and in the right direction at the right time. In addition, Whiffle’s software will enable Shell to purchase additional electricity from gas-fired power plants better planned if the output of the turbines can be accurately predicted.

Whiffle’s software

Shell’s investment in Whiffle has enabled the Delft-based company to further develop its software to produce more accurate weather predictions. Shell’s wind division received a new impulse in 2016, and they have been using Whiffle’s software for the last two years to optimize their wind parks. The software helps Shell to calculate what the weather conditions in its wind parks are and their effect on output. For example, the software can clarify how the wind behaves at a specific wind park location and its effect on wind turbines at virtual locations. The optimum position of the turbines can be determined in this way. Wake effects are also taken into consideration. The rotors of a wind turbine displace the wind, which means the wind speed behind them is lower, and this is known as the wake effect. Simulations reveal the effects of such phenomena.

Triangular cooperation

The triangular cooperation between Shell, Whiffle, and TU Delft involves a number of research themes, including solar energy. The companies want to lay floating solar panels between the wind turbines, and Whiffle’s software is suitable for incorporating wind as well as solar energy in a simulation. Whiffle started as an offshoot of the university, and the young company is located at the campus. It has students, PhD students, and postdoctoral researchers at Delft applying to the company for research positions. The ties between the university and Shell go back to before the Second World War, and Shell has traditionally invested in research.

Win-win

In conclusion, the collaboration between Shell and Whiffle is a win-win situation. The partnership allows Shell to optimize its wind parks and purchase additional electricity from gas-fired power plants better planned. Meanwhile, Whiffle can further develop its accurate weather forecasts thanks to Shell’s investment. The triangular cooperation between Shell, Whiffle, and TU Delft also allows the companies to work together on research themes, including solar energy.

Source: TU Delft

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