Hurricane Laura-induced loads on wind turbines -- Part I: High-fidelity modeling and sensitivity to turbulent inflow conditions

Abstract

Tropical cyclones can produce extreme winds in the lowest portion of the boundary layer, posing high risks to critical energy infrastructure, including wind energy systems. This study evaluates the dynamic response of an idling wind turbine to turbulent inflow generated during the passage of a hurricane. We performed large-eddy simulations of Hurricane Laura (2020) at several grid resolutions -- coarse $(Δx=55.55\,{\rm m})$, intermediate $(Δx=25\,{\rm m})$, and fine $(Δx=10\,{\rm m})$ -- to investigate differences in mean flow characteristics and turbulence structures as the hurricane progresses across a virtual wind turbine location. The large-eddy simulation data served as direct inflow conditions for aeroelastic simulations to assess the turbine's response. Our results reveal significant differences in the mean wind and turbulent flow structures between the grid resolutions, leading to distinct impacts on the wind turbine's aeroelastic behavior. These findings emphasize the need for high-resolution inflow information to better predict extreme loads and inform the design of wind turbines in regions frequently affected by tropical cyclones. As a continuation of this work, Part II of this study will evaluate the turbine's response from different locations relative to the storm's trajectory and compare it with current wind turbine design practices.