Primary Uses
- Understanding long-term wind resource variability
- Using as a reference data in MCP analysis
- Validating and supplementing met tower observations
- Integrating resource data into internal analysis tools and software
MCP analysis is only as accurate as your reference data. Rigorous validation demonstrates that 3TIER Reference Wind Time Series provide consistently higher correlations than NCEP/NCAR reanalysis data and remote reference sites. Higher correlations reduce uncertainty in your AEP (annual energy production) values and increase confidence in your predicted energy yield.
Delivered online as a CSV (Comma-separated values) file, the Reference Wind Time Series uploads easily into your existing analysis tools and software. It is also integrated directly into WindPro 2.7 and, with just a few clicks of your mouse, data are ready for MCP long-term correction. In addition, you can download a free 3-month sample of the time series before ordering.
Learn more about the technical highlights.
The Reference Wind Time Series offers 13 times the resolution of NCEP/NCAR reanalysis data at the exact height and location of your site. Each time series is derived from our 30-year global dataset produced through state-of-the-art NWP (Numerical Weather Prediction) model simulations. As a single data source for locations worldwide, 3TIER's time series is especially valuable to firms performing assessment on a global scale. Read product reviews.
Time series data put short-term observations into a long-term perspective. In this example, the observed year of data is one of the highest on record for this site, well above average.
CSV files with 30+ years of hourly data ready to upload to the software of your choice:
3TIER's Wind Reference Time Series provides 30+ years of 15 km resolution data (compared with 200 km resolution from NCAR/NCEP reanalysis) on all the essential aspects of your wind resource.
Produced through the application of an advanced, mesoscale NWP model known as WRF, 3TIER's dataset is based on a proven technology supported and continually enhanced by the global atmospheric science and research community.
Unlike other traditional long-term reference datasets, 3TIER's dataset is at a resolution that captures the mesoscale processes that affect your site and thus provides better correlations and ultimately an improved prediction of long-term AEP (annual energy production). Run from 1980 to the present, our dataset is updated every month to facilitate analysis using your most recent observational data.
If you are unfamiliar with the technical terminology on this page, please visit our Glossary for more information.
Download complete version of EMD's validation paper.
"EMD has validated 3TIER Reference Wind Time Series using selected project locations in different regions of the world where quality, long-term tall tower data are available.
"Our preliminary findings show that 3TIER wind data can significantly reduce long-term correction error compared to using NCAR/NCEP data, which is often the only option due to a lack of reliable long-term ground measurements.
"Reducing error also reduces the uncertainty of AEP calculations, improving the value of your wind farm project when sold, or providing you with better financing opportunities."
— Per Nielsen
EMD Manager, Senior Wind Energy Consultant
http://www.emd.dk/
"EAPC Wind Energy finds 3TIER's Reference Wind Time Series extremely valuable when it comes to long-term reference data for performing MCPs. Issues due to sensor changes, monitoring station moves, and reporting methods adjusted over time, can all be avoided by accessing 3TIER's model time series data.
"3TIER's high-resolution data and modeling techniques have proven to EAPC to be more useful and accurate compared to previous global and regional datasets. The best part about model time series data is getting data at hub height, which helps eliminate atmospheric stability issues when performing MCPs, thus improving the final product to our clients."
— Brandon Storm, PhD
EAPC Senior Meteorologist, Wind Resource Analyst
http://www.eapc.net/
