Next Generation Research Turbine

Background
The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) is seeking a modern wind turbine for research and development (R&D) purposes, specifically for decarbonizing industrial processes, wind energy R&D, and grid integration R&D as part of the ARIES platform. The turbine must have modern power electronics and the manufacturer must be willing to participate in R&D or provide information to NREL for non-standard operation projects.

Work Details
The wind turbine must have a power rating of at least 3MW, a maximum tip height of less than 500ft above ground level, and the ability to interconnect at 34.5kV. It should be controllable from an existing General Electric (GE) Windcontrol™ wind plant controller or come with a wind plant controller that can control a GE 1.5 SLE wind turbine. The turbine should allow for future integration of Department of Energy (DOE) control system for management and provisions of grid services. It should also be compatible for future operation on a DC-microgrid and allow for research on blade aerodynamics by having the ability to reconfigure the blade.
Post-manufacturing support is required, including site support during receiving of components, potential providing of specialized installation tools, technical support during turbine commissioning, and supporting IT integration of turbine into NREL network.

Period of Performance
The anticipated period of performance is execution through mid-2026.

Place of Performance
The work will be performed at NREL's Flatirons Campus.