Comparison of a 2nd generation LiDAR wind measurement technique with CFD numerical modelling in complex terrain

In the current study an analysis of the methodology, relevance and potential of a 2^nd generation LiDAR is presented along with analysis of a deployment at a UK onshore wind farm. The results demonstrate the potential of the LiDAR to attain details of wind farm flow and structures, along with the potential to corroborate numerical approaches with the measured data. Advances in CFD approaches and techniques along with the availability of significant computational resources, it is possible to conduct detailed numerical analysis for comparison with the measurement approach. A comparative analysis is presented in the results for the conducted studies. The results show that remote sensing devices offer a valuable and accurate resource for wind vector analysis and flow visualisation, along with the flexibility to organise individual measurement campaigns tailored to situation and client. This approach offers a valuable tool for wind turbine developers in performance and site assessment approaches. The study also shows the methods by which the device can be used as a validation tool for CFD along with the comparison between these two analysis methods.