Recovery processes in a large offshore wind farm

Abstract. Wind turbines in a wind farm extract energy from the atmospheric flow and convert it into electricity, resulting localized momentum deficit wake that reduces availability for downwind turbines. Atmospheric convergence above, below, sides wakes replenishes lost momentum, at least partially, so deep inside can continue to function. In this study, we explore recovery processes hypothetical offshore with particular emphasis on comparing spatial patterns magnitudes of horizontal- vertical-recovery understanding role mesoscale farms. For purpose, use Weather Research Forecasting (WRF) model, state-of-the-art model equipped turbine parameterization, simulate large different spacings under realistic initial boundary conditions. Different inter-turbine range densely packed (case I: low distance 0.5 km ? 5 rotor diameter) sparsely III: high 2 20 diameter). apart spacings, also explored ranges background speeds over which operate, ranging speed 3–11.75 m s?1 A) 11–18 C). Results show vertical turbulent transport aloft is main contributor farms except cases high-wind-speed farms, where horizontal advective contribute equally. Vertical shows systematic dependence density quantified using low-order empirical equations. significantly alter patterns, especially these cases, circulations created by high-momentum air layer (ABL) thus aid To best our knowledge, one first studies look replenishment meteorological conditions including processes. Overall, study advances farm–ABL interactions.