PALEOS supports R&D in the wind sector with advanced solutions to improve blade efficiency and durability

The PALEOS project, developed by the NORDEX Group (NORDEX ENERGY SPAIN and NORDEX BLADES) and the CENER (National Center for Renewable Energy), primarily sets out to research advanced technology solutions for the design and manufacture of wind turbine blades. Its approach aims at maximizing structural and operational performance throughout the working life of the blades, with real operating conditions taken into account from the design phase, and also increasing their durability.

The initiative covers some of the key challenges currently faced by the wind power sector, such as optimizing aerodynamic behaviour, preventing leading edge degradation, and reducing the impact of potential deviations from the manufacturing process.

In the field of design, the project works on the development and evaluation of more robust aerodynamic profiles to cope with real operating conditions, incorporating an analysis of blade performance against wear and tear and different operating conditions throughout their working life. This approach strengthens the technical basis on which energy production calculation models are based.

PALEOS also investigates common defects associated with the manufacture of wind blades, analysing their impact on structural behaviour and durability with the aim of improving design, validation, and quality control criteria.

The advances made will increase confidence in blade design, reduce risks associated with manufacturing defects, and optimize energy performance over the working life of the wind turbine, thus contributing to a more efficient, competitive and technologically sound wind power sector.

This project is funded by the Government of Navarra under a Call for Assistance to carry out R&D projects Call 2024.