Modelling the Risk of Icing

{access view=!registered}Only logged in users can view the full text of the article.{/access}{access view=registered}Icing has a strong effect on the planning and the operation of wind turbines (Laakso et al. 2009): it influences the aerodynamics of the blades and causes production losses (Figure 1). Moreover, additional ice loads lead to extreme and fatigue loads. Iced wind measurement sensors at the wind turbine’s nacelle lead to erroneous behaviour and security stops. Finally, ice throw represents a significant safety risk for pedestrians and service personnel. For that reason detailed knowledge on frequency and duration of icing events as well as maximum ice loads are crucial components of site assessment in regions prone to these conditions. Additionally, the inclusion of icing within wind forecasts is important when operating a wind farm because it allows operators to optimise performance and reduce risk.